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OHSU # 2165 — Compounds that bind macrophage migration inhibitory factor

Summary
Recombinant polypeptide composition, which selectively block key pro-inflammatory factors that could stop multiple sclerosis (MS) progression. 

Technology Overview
MIF acts on the immune system to recruit inflammatory factors within injured tissues, including the central nervous system in MS. Upon binding to its receptor, CD74, MIF activates pathways to promote inflammation. The current composition competes with MIF to bind to CD74 thereby inhibiting inflammation. Derived from CD74, the new composition competes for binding of the CD74 ligand, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). CD74 is a chaperone that assists with the folding and trafficking of Class II MHC (Major Histocompatibility Complex) while MIF has been implicated in the pathogenesis of progressive multiple sclerosis. 

Applications of the compound include:

• A therapeutic to block inflammation driven by MIF interactions with CD74.
• An alternative to a MIF specific mAbs as the current composition is more selective in its ability to block MIF signaling through CD74.

Licensing Opportunity
This technology is available for licensing.

Inventors:

• Arthur Vandenbark
• Gil Benedek
• Roberto Meza-Romero

Patents

Categories:

• Therapeutics - Immunology
• Therapeutics

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