FPR2, CXCR2, and OR2AT4 activating aptamers for diagnostic and therapeutic use (Ref. OT UC3M_158)

UC3M in collaboration with CIEMAT, FIBioHRC, Aptus Biotech, and FIIS-FJD, have obtained various DNA aptamer sequences which specifically recognise G protein-coupled receptors class A (GPCRA) and work as agonists of said cell receptors. 

Namely, the targets of these aptamers are human receptors FPR2, CXCR2, and OR2AT4. Therefore they are tools which display diagnostic and therapeutic potential in diseases involving these receptors.

INNOVATIVE ASPECTS: 

·       Three types of DNA aptamers specifically recognising and activating human receptors FPR2 and CXCR2 have been obtained.

·       Three types of DNA aptamers specifically recognising and activating human receptor OR2AT4 have been obtained

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES:

·       Aptamers have emerged as an alternative to other biomolecules, such as antibodies and peptides, used in diagnoses and therapeutic treatments. Since aptamers are DNA molecules, they have the following advantages:

·       More cost-effective and reproducible production. 

They can be generated in a reproducible manner using conventional low-cost              solid-phase synthesis methods. 

In contrast, antibody synthesis involves the use of cell lines or animals, which entails variability among different batches.

·       Customisable. 

They can be modified to increase stability, and functional groups can also be added to implement their applicability.

·       Low or nil immunogenicity. As they are not eliminated by the immune system, they are a very interesting therapeutic tool. 

STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT: Development phase – Laboratory.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS: Patent applied.