This invention is a new and simple method for the identification of active versus latent matrix metalloprotease enzymes (MMPs) in tissue.
Background & Unmet Need:
MMPs are involved in tumor progression and therefore are targets for anti-cancer drug therapies. However, most drug therapies directed at inhibition of MMPs have failed because there is no reliable biomarker to determine MMP activity in tissue. This invention provides a reliable diagnostic tool to monitor MMP activity for clinical trials of MMP inhibitors.
Technology Description:s
Using differential specific antibodies targeted to the biomarker of interest, WSU researchers have developed a method to identify whether MMPs are active or in a latent phase. MMP’s that are in the active phase cleave the protein Galectin-3, which is associated with tumor progression. This technology consists of antibodies that recognize the cleaved and non-cleaved Galectin-3, thereby allowing determination of whether or not active MMPs are present.
Commercial Applications:
- Diagnostic tool for monitoring MMP activity for anti-MMP therapies
Stage of Development:
Preclinical
Competitive Advantages:
- Can be applied to current antibody testing platforms, including ELISA, histochemistry, etc., in order to quickly prescreen clinical trial candidates
- Help to revive failed compounds in past MMP inhibitor clinical trials
- Help to identify the best candidates for new clinical trials for MMP inhibitor compounds
Intellectual Property Status:
Patent application filed
Related Publications or Citations of Work:
Nangia-Makker P, Raz T, Tait L, Hogan V, Fridman R, Raz A. Galectic-3 cleavage: a novel surrogate marker for matrix metalloproteinase activity in growing breast cancers. Cancer Res. 2007 Dec 15;67(24):11760-8.