The overall goal of this research proposal is to determine the effectiveness of recombinant human lactoferrin (rhLF) for treating gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. This Phase II proposal will focus on the ability of rhLF to treat the 01 side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), a class of drugs widely-used for reduction of pain, fever, and inflammation. The adverse GI side effects of ulceration and bleeding limit the usefulness of NSAIDs. Recombinant human lactoferrin, produced in high purity by advanced technological means, has a unique combination of antibiotic, anti-inflammatory. and mucosal healing properties that make it especially useful for the reduction of NSAID toxicity.
The specific aims of this proposal are to use animal models to determine: 1) the efficacy of rhLF to prevent acute and chronic NSAID-induced GI side effects; 2) the ability of rhLF to heal GI lesions that are aggravated by NSAIDs; and 3) the mechanism for rhLF protection of the 0! tract in the presence of NSAIDs. Development of this therapeutic potential for rhLF will fulfill a crucial need for a way to safely administer NSAIDs.

Proposed Commercial Applications

NOT AVAILABLE

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Type
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Grants - Phase II (R42)
Project #
2R42DK055374-02A1
Application #
6337954
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-SSS-3 (10))
Program Officer
Podskalny, Judith M,
Project Start
1999-07-01
Project End
2003-06-30
Budget Start
2001-07-15
Budget End
2002-06-30
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2001
Total Cost
$274,703
Indirect Cost
Name
Agennix, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
808956700
City
Houston
State
TX
Country
United States
Zip Code
Dial, Elizabeth J; Dohrman, Amanda J; Romero, Jim J et al. (2005) Recombinant human lactoferrin prevents NSAID-induced intestinal bleeding in rodents. J Pharm Pharmacol 57:93-9