This technology is a combined disease model and therapeutic strategy for the treatment of GUK1 mutation-associated mitochondrial DNA depletion-deletion syndrome (MDDS).
Mitochondrial DNA depletion-deletion syndromes (MDDS) are a rare group of diseases that affect mitochondrial DNA through reductions in copy number or deletions, with pathologies impacting various organs, including the brain, central nervous system, liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. These diseases often occur in infants and young children, leading to developmental defects and early death. A subset of MDDS cases is attributed to nucleotide pool imbalances, resulting in mtDNA instability, deletions, and depletions. Evidence suggests this imbalance is associated with a mutation in GUK1. Currently, there are no FDA-approved treatments for MDDS.
These technologies combine disease models and therapeutics for mitochondrial-DNA depletion-deletion syndromes (MDDS), caused by nucleotide pool imbalances due to GUK1 mutations. Knock-in and knock-out mouse models with GUK1 mutations are established, and monitoring of MDDS progression is established. Deoxyguanosine, forodesine, or a combination of the two therapeutics is used to restore the nucleotide pool balance and enable mtDNA repair and replication. Used together, this technology increases understanding and treatment options of MDDS.
This technology has been validated in mouse models.
Patent Pending (WO/2024/006595)
IR CU23197
Licensing Contact: Kristin Neuman