Modulating blood-brain barrier for enhanced drug delivery
A novel approach using cadherin peptides to modulate the blood-brain barrier, enhancing the delivery of peptides, proteins, and oligonucleotides into the brain. This technology aims to improve treatment efficacy for brain tumors, Alzheimer's, and multiple sclerosis.
Overview
This innovative technology leverages cadherin peptides to modulate the blood-brain barrier (BBB), significantly enhancing the delivery of therapeutic molecules such as peptides, proteins, and oligonucleotides into the brain. By temporarily increasing the porosity of the BBB, this approach enables the effective penetration of small-to-large molecules and lipid nanoparticles, potentially improving treatment outcomes for conditions like brain tumors, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes BBB modulators (BBBMs) to inhibit cadherin interactions, increasing the permeability of the BBB.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver anticancer drugs effectively, reducing brain tumor size and improving survival rates in animal models.
- Achieves up to 20-fold increase in brain deposition of monoclonal antibodies when delivered via the carotid artery.
- Applicable for a range of therapeutic agents, including neurotrophic factors and antibodies.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 7, having been validated in both in vitro and in vivo systems. It has shown effectiveness in enhancing drug delivery in animal models, with further validation planned for neurotrophic factors and antibodies in models of brain tumors, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
About University of Kansas
The University of Kansas is a comprehensive public research university with a multi-campus footprint centered in Lawrence and Kansas City, Kansas, combining broad academic depth with a strong applied-research culture. Industry engages through a research and technology park adjacent to campus that provides flexible lab and office space, with shared core facilities and streamlined contracting to speed sponsor work. Integration with a major academic health system and a medical center enables clinical partnerships and access to diverse patient populations. Proximity to the Kansas City metro connects partners to the region’s innovation ecosystem, while research is supported by funding from agencies such as NIH and NSF, and the technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startups.
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