FFC#20/2014

Identification and characterization of LPS-neutralizing human peptides: potential tools to control inflammation in cystic fibrosis lung disease

FFC#20/2014

Identification and characterization of LPS-neutralizing human peptides: potential tools to control inflammation in cystic fibrosis lung disease

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR

Eliodoro Pizzo (Lab. di Struttura e Funzione delle Proteine-SFP, lab. group-presso il Dip. di Biologia, Università di Napoli Federico II)

Partner

Emilia Maria Pedone (Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, C.N.R Napoli)

RESEARCHERS

18

CATEGORY

AREA 4 Lung inflammation

DURATION

2 years

GOAL

€ 35.000

RESULTS

Several novel human host defence peptides were identified, some of which have shown interesting LPS binding ability. These LPS binding molecules showed activity on Gram positive and negative bacteria including several CF clinical strains; moreover, no toxicity was found in different human cell lines. Experiments carried out on human and murine LPS treated macrophages highlighted significant propensity to mitigate cytokine and chemokine expression. Next step will be to verify these LPS neutralizing properties in CF murine models. This evidence suggests new perspectives on topic therapeutic use of these bioactive peptides.

OTHER RESULTS

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Two molecules are effective in activating Heat Shock Proteins and enhancing the action of CFTR correctors with the F508del mutation in vitro.

FFC#5/2024

Some peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) re-sensitise Pseudomonas aeruginosa to the antibiotic meropenem in vitro and reduce its virulence.

FFC#1/2023

Tezacaftor, one of the components of Kaftrio, induces an accumulation of dihydroceramides both in vitro and in vivo in animal models