Inhibition of USP11 for treating pulmonary fibrosis
A novel approach targeting USP11 to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) by inhibiting pro-fibrotic pathways, offering potential therapeutic benefits.
Overview
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a severe and currently incurable lung disease characterized by progressive fibrosis. This innovative solution targets the ubiquitin specific peptidase 11 (USP11) to ameliorate pulmonary fibrosis. USP11 is known to stabilize pro-fibrotic factors, thereby contributing to disease progression. By inhibiting USP11, this approach aims to attenuate fibroblast activation and fibrotic fibroblast accumulation, addressing a critical unmet need in IPF treatment.
Technical specifications
The proposed solution focuses on inhibiting USP11, which has been found to stabilize TGF-β receptor II, LPAR1, and E2F1. These elements are central to the pro-fibrotic signaling pathways that drive IPF. The approach involves using USP11 inhibitors (USP11-i) to reduce these pathways' activity, thereby diminishing lung injury and fibrotic activation. Key experimental methods include immunoblotting, contraction assays, and cell proliferation and migration assays to evaluate the inhibitors' effects on lung fibroblasts, including samples from IPF patients.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 3, with ongoing experimental validation in laboratory settings. Future steps include detailed assessment in murine models of lung fibrosis to further establish the therapeutic efficacy and safety profile of USP11 inhibitors.
About The Ohio State University
The Ohio State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university in Columbus, serving one of the nation’s largest student populations and a broad research enterprise. Industry partners engage through an integrated academic medical center for clinical translation, a campus‑adjacent innovation district for co‑located projects, and a statewide extension network that pilots solutions across Ohio. Corporate engagement provides a single front door for sponsored research, talent pipelines, and streamlined agreements. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, USDA, DoD, and NASA. A dedicated technology transfer office and venture support help protect IP, license technologies, and launch startups.
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