BACKGROUND
Mincle, otherwise known as C-type Lectin Domain Family 4 Member E (CLEC4E) is a pattern recognition receptor known to be upregulated in the progression of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis. It is also known to be involved in the progression of several other conditions, including both infectious and chronic diseases. However, antibodies available for detecting and neutralizing Mincle are limited and expensive.
Researchers at the University of Calgary have developed a novel, single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) aptamer with anti-Mincle activity which has been validated in vitro, demonstrating inhibition of Mincle activation in Murine macrophages. In vivo, the aptamer demonstrates a dose-dependent response of protection against DSS-induced ulcerative colitis evidenced by reduced disease activity index, weight loss, inflammatory colon shortening, and MPO activity in the colon in mice. This novel aptamer has potential for use as a therapeutic in other inflammatory conditions regulated by Mincle, as a diagnostic tool for detecting Mincle, and as a research tool for visualization of Mincle and purification of functional proteins.
AREAS OF APPLICATION
- Therapeutic applications: colitis and other forms of inflammatory bowel disease, neuroinflammation in multiple sclerosis, cancer immunotherapy, dysmenorrhea.
- Diagnostic applications: Mincle detection probe for use in fluorescent labelling, in vitro and in vivo imaging, and histological staining.
- Research tool use: Mincle visualization and purification of functional proteins.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES
- Versatile technology with multiple potential uses and indications.
- Cost-effective alternative to existing immunomodulatory treatments such as monoclonal antibody therapeutics.
- Potential to target many infectious and chronic diseases where Mincle is involved in disease progression and regulates the inflammatory pathway.
PUBLICATIONS AND RESOURCES