Technology ID
TAB-5113

Immunosuppressive Exosomes for Treating Autoimmune Diseases

E-Numbers
E-033-2021-0
Lead Inventor
Kang, Minkyung
Lead IC
NEI
Co-Inventors
Egwuagu, Charles
ICs
NEI
Applications
Therapeutics
Therapeutic Areas
Ophthalmology
Neurology
Immunology
Development Stages
Pre-clinical (in vivo)
Research Products
Carriers/Adjuvants

The National Eye Institute (NEI) seeks research co-development partners and/or licensees for the development of immunosuppressive exosomes derived from IL-35 and IL-27 producing Bregs as a therapeutic treatment for autoimmune diseases.

This technology includes the use of exosomes derived from Interleukin 35 (IL-35) and Interleukin 27 (IL-27) producing regulatory B cells (Bregs) as a therapeutic treatment for autoimmune diseases such as uveitis and multiple sclerosis. Current therapies face challenges with dosing and bioavailability of IL-35, which is a weakly associated heterodimer that can easily dissociate. Our innovative approach utilizes exosomes that encapsulate both subunits of IL-27 and IL-35, ensuring a stable and effective delivery mechanism. This advancement addresses the critical need for reliable dosing and bioavailability in immunotherapy, making it a significant improvement over existing treatments.

The technical solution involves the isolation and application of exosomes that contain biologically active IL-27 and IL-35, which have shown efficacy in preclinical models by suppressing neuroinflammation and promoting regulatory immune responses. This technology is particularly relevant for C-level executives and directors in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, as it opens new avenues for treating challenging autoimmune conditions with a novel delivery system that overcomes existing barriers in therapeutic administration.

We are seeking licensing opportunities for this groundbreaking technology, which has the potential to transform the treatment landscape for autoimmune diseases. Collaborators and licensees will benefit from access to a unique therapeutic platform that is ready for further development and commercialization. We invite interested parties to engage in discussions regarding potential partnerships and licensing agreements to bring this innovative therapy to market.

Commercial Applications
• Treatment for autoimmune diseases such as uveitis and multiple sclerosis • Potential applications in therapies for other inflammatory conditions like arthritis and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) • Development of exosome-based immunotherapies for various neurological disorders

Competitive Advantages
• Exosomes provide a stable delivery system for IL-27 and IL-35, overcoming dosing challenges associated with traditional therapies • The small size of exosomes (30-150 nm) allows for effective delivery across the blood-brain and blood-ocular barriers, enhancing therapeutic potential in neuroinflammatory diseases • Preclinical studies demonstrate significant efficacy in suppressing autoimmune responses and promoting regulatory immune cell expansion
Licensing Contact:
Baxter, Merissa
merissa.baxter@nih.gov