This STTR Phase I proposal is intended to demonstrate the feasibility of developing tanshinone small-molecule analog (TSA) 521 as an effective and safe small-molecule therapy for patients with sepsis and septic shock. In the US, more than one million people develop sepsis every year. Yet, no effective anti-sepsis treatment exists other than antibiotics and supportive care. We have discovered that high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) is a pivotal proinflammatory mediator released by macrophages during sepsis. We have also discovered that tanshinone IIA sodium sulfonate, in high doses, decreased circulating levels of HMGB1 and improved the survival rate in the endotoxemia and cecal ligation and puncture models of sepsis. To further enhance the solubility and the binding affinity for HMGB1, we generate TSA521 by opening up tanshinone?s orthobenzoquinone and introducing a carboxylic group. The affinity of TSA521 for HMGB1 is 55-fold higher than that of the tanshinone IIA sodium sulfate. TSA521 also potently inhibits the release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines known to aggravate and perpetuate inflammation in sepsis. Based on these preliminary studies, we hypothesize that TSA521 can be developed as an effective and safe therapeutic agent to treat patients with sepsis and septic shock. To advance TSA521 towards its ultimate clinical use, we will identify its most effective dose and therapeutic window to attenuate organ injury and improve survival in an animal model of sepsis. We will then determine TSA521?s safety and pharmacokinetic profile. These proposed studies will provide critical feasibility information to further develop TSA521 as an HMGB1-suppressing agent to treat sepsis. Our ultimate goal is to obtain commercial utilization of TSA521 as a novel and effective treatment for patients with sepsis and septic shock.

Public Health Relevance

Sepsis is a major cause of death in the United States, but there is no effective FDA-approved treatment for sepsis. We have synthesized tanshinone small-molecule analog (TSA) 521 and shown that it decreases the secretion of proinflammatory mediators known to worsen and perpetuate sepsis. We propose to develop TSA521 as a new and powerful treatment for sepsis patients.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Grants - Phase I (R41)
Project #
1R41GM123858-01
Application #
9347014
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1)
Program Officer
Cole, Alison E
Project Start
2017-04-10
Project End
2018-09-30
Budget Start
2017-04-10
Budget End
2018-03-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2017
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Therasource, LLC
Department
Type
DUNS #
144994972
City
Roslyn
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
11576