Simon H. Friedman, Professor of Medicinal Chemistry in the University of Missouri - Kansas City's Division of Pharmacology and Pharmceutical Sciences, will deliver a seminar entitled, "Using light as a reagent to allow the continuously variable release of therapeutic peptides." Hosted by Paramjit Arora and Tania Lupoli.
For more information about Simon Friedman, click here.
Abstract: We have developed an approach for controlling the timing and amount of therapeutic protein release using a Photo-Activated Depot or PAD. This is an approach that has particular utility for the treatment of diabetes, where the required timing and amount of insulin administration varies throughout the day. The key property of a PAD is the ability to toggle protein solubility using light directed through the skin. Insoluble depots then release soluble active protein upon irradiation. We have developed multiple chemical approaches for toggling this solubility, including the temporary shifting of protein isoelectric points. The approach has been applied to both insulin and glucagon, but should be amenable to any therapeutic protein, in particular those that benefit from variable timing and amount of dosing. An overview of the approach will be presented, including its roots in light control of gene expression, as well as the complete path from synthesis, photochemistry, biochemistry and ultimately in-vivo efficacy.