Center For Technology Commercialization

Targeting SOX17 for the Treatment of Lung Injury

(CHMC Ref. Id: 2004-1102)

Overview:

The work associated with this technology demonstrates that SOX17 functions as a key regulator in regeneration of the brochiolar epithelium after lung damage. In addition, a role for bronchiolar epithelial cells as a source of progenitor cells that can mediate lung repair has been discerned. From this, a pharmaceutical composition was identified for upregulating SOX17 to induce healing of lung injury in diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, cystic fibrosis, and COPD.

Applications:

• Treatment of infection-induced lung injury

Advantages:

• Provides a novel therapeutic for healing injured lung tissue

Patent Information:

• Patent Applications Pending

Cincinnati Children's Lead Inventor:

Jeffrey A. Whitsett, M.D.