Novel Selective Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists for Hypertension Treatment

OVERVIEW
This invention features novel peptides/peptide analogs that are designed to selectively inhibit angiotensin II (Ang II) and improve existing treatment options for hypertension. More specifically, the peptide PEP7 targets downstream pathways (Erk ½) of the Ang II receptor, resulting in improved blood pressure. The selectivity of this peptide may reduce the adverse effects (e.g., dizziness, headache, cough, sexual dysfunction) associated with traditional medications.

BACKGROUND

Hypertension and associated cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death globally. Patients often do not have their hypertension under control. Issues with patient compliance is often due to side effects from traditional therapies and/or the requirement of multiple medications. This invention addresses the need for a selective Ang II inhibitor that can potentially enhance the efficacy and reduce side effects for hypertension treatment.

Benefit

• • The selective nature of the peptide (PEP7) may reduce patient side effects
  • The reduction in side-effects may help to improve patient compliance
  • PEP7 may have synergistic effects with existing hypertension medications to improve current treatment regimens
  • Potential for use in biomedical research to improve the understanding of the Ang II pathway in hypertension

Market Application

• • Biomedical Research: A tool to study the selective inhibition of the Ang II signaling pathway in related cardiovascular diseases (PEP7 expression systems i.e., in vitro
    transfection, vector constructs)
  • Pharmaceutical Industry: Development of a novel drug that may be both an effective and profitable treatment for hypertension
  • Physicians & Healthcare Providers: Potential alternative for patients that experience side effects with current hypertension medications

Publications

US Patent Application Issued - National Phase No. 9,944,677

Selective inhibition of angiotensin receptor signaling through Erk1/2 pathway by a novel peptide. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2014 Apr 15;306(8):R619-26. doi: 10.1152/ajpregu.00562.2013.