Technology Overview

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common form of the skin disorder, eczema. In the United States, AD affects more than 16.5 million adults and 9.6 million children. This chronic skin condition makes the skin red and itchy and tends to flare periodically. At present, there is no cure identified for AD. Current mitigation measures include the use of steroids and immunosuppressants, avoidance of harsh soaps, frequent moisturization of the skin and prevention of triggers that could worsen the skin condition. However, these methods require patients’ conscientious efforts and can only help to prevent bouts of AD. Therefore, this calls for novel therapeutic measures for AD.

EGR1 (Early Growth Response protein 1) is a zinc-finger type transcription factor that plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AD. The technology comprises of a novel therapeutic compound AB1711 for AD. The technology provider has shown that AB1711 improves skin lesions and reduces scratching behavior in an AD mouse model by directly targeting the DNA-binding domain of EGR1. AB1711 compound could be an innovative therapeutic pipeline for atopic dermatitis.

The technology provider is seeking collaborative opportunities to further the development of AB1711 as a novel therapeutic agent for AD. Potential partnership can be research collaboration with academic or industry partners.

Technology Features, Specifications and Advantages

The technology comprises a patented therapeutic compound for atopic dermatitis (AD), AB1711.

The technology provider has tested in an AD mouse model lacking EGR1 and identified that EGR1 is a regulator that produces various types of atopic inflammatory cytokines. AB1711 blocks the DNA-binding domain of EGR1. With this inhibition, AB1711 brings about anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects by selectively inhibiting the expression of various atopic inflammatory cytokines in the site of atopic dermatitis with minimal systemic side effects.

The technology could be developed as a new targeted therapy to overcome side effects and limitations of existing steroids and immunosuppressants, which are commonly used for managing AD symptoms.

Potential Applications

The global atopic dermatitis market is expected to grow to USD 18.3 billion by 2027 at a CAGR of 11.1%. (Global data for 2018). Since atopic dermatitis is caused by environmental factors such as environmental pollution, greenhouse gas, harmful UV rays, and physiological factors caused by microorganisms and allergies, continuous market expansion is expected.

Potential applications of the technology include treating pruritic inflammatory skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, particularly for infants.

Customer Benefit

• First-in-class pipeline for transcription factor targeting
• Innovative therapeutic efficacy without side effects
• Improvement of pruritus
• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Replacement of steroids and immunosuppressants