Sygnature Discovery Revolutionizes Neuroinflammation Research with In Vivo LPS Model

In a groundbreaking development, Sygnature Discovery, a leading drug discovery and preclinical services provider, has successfully established an innovative in vivo lipopolysaccharide (LPS) model of inflammation. This cutting-edge model holds immense promise in unraveling the complexities of life-limiting neuroinflammatory conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and traumatic brain injuries. By shedding light on these conditions, the LPS model opens doors to the identification of novel drug targets and the development of targeted therapeutic interventions.

What is an LPS Model?

A lipopolysaccharide (LPS) model, also known as an endotoxin model, is a research tool used to study the effects of lipopolysaccharides on biological systems. Lipopolysaccharides are molecules found on the outer membrane of certain types of bacteria, particularly Gram-negative bacteria. They are potent stimulators of the immune system and can trigger robust inflammatory responses in the body.

In a lipopolysaccharide model, researchers introduce lipopolysaccharides into an experimental system, such as in vitro cell cultures or animal models, to mimic the inflammatory processes observed in various diseases. By studying the responses elicited by lipopolysaccharides, scientists can gain insights into the mechanisms of inflammation, immune system activation, and the role of lipopolysaccharides in specific diseases.

LPS models are commonly used in biomedical research, particularly in studies related to infectious diseases, sepsis, immunology, and inflammation. They provide a controlled experimental approach to investigate the effects of lipopolysaccharides on various physiological and pathological processes, helping researchers understand the underlying mechanisms and develop potential therapeutic interventions.

Advancing Anti-Inflammatory Drug Discovery

Sygnature Discovery’s LPS in vivo model not only supports early-stage anti-inflammatory drug discovery in neuroinflammation but also extends its utility to kidney and systemic inflammation. What sets this model apart from conventional approaches is its inclusion of kidney inflammation and neuroinflammation studies. This unique feature allows researchers to gain valuable insights into the intricate interplay of inflammation across different organs, providing a comprehensive understanding of these complex diseases.

Enhancing Drug Target Validation and Translation

In addition to its contributions to the study of neuroinflammation and kidney inflammation, Sygnature Discovery’s LPS model offers a deeper understanding of the pharmacology and underlying processes of systemic inflammation. Building upon the company’s existing in vitro capabilities, this model strengthens drug target validation and the translation of findings from in vitro studies to in vivo scenarios. By measuring key pro-inflammatory cytokines in the blood, the LPS model provides a valuable tool for the rapid evaluation of the efficacy of novel anti-inflammatory drugs during early-stage drug discovery.

Insights from Key Experts

Dr. John Unitt, Vice President of Inflammation and Immunology at Sygnature Discovery, emphasized the importance of successful translation from in vitro cell function to in vivo disease models in the drug discovery process. He noted that the LPS in vivo model plays a crucial role in determining the efficacy of novel anti-inflammatory agents. Dr. Unitt expressed excitement about this initial step in establishing the model and hinted at a pipeline of future models aimed at testing a broader range of immunomodulatory drugs and mechanisms.

Dr. Max Mirza, Vice President of Neuroscience at Sygnature Discovery, highlighted the similarities between neuroinflammation, systemic inflammation, and kidney inflammation in terms of the involved inflammatory mediators. He explained that by working across therapeutic teams and employing the LPS model to measure these mediators in different body compartments, researchers gain a more holistic understanding of their scientific inquiries. This comprehensive approach enables a better grasp of the mechanism of action, the impact of targets on inflammatory processes across multiple body compartments, and the relevance to a drug’s efficacy. Dr. Mirza emphasized that this unique approach enables clients to explore how impacting systemic inflammation may influence neuroinflammation and assess whether systemic inflammatory mediators can serve as translatable biomarkers of neuroinflammation.

A Paradigm Shift in Neuroinflammation Research

The establishment of Sygnature Discovery’s in vivo LPS model marks a significant milestone in the realm of neuroinflammation research. By enabling a comprehensive understanding of complex diseases and offering valuable insights into drug mechanisms and efficacy, this model sets the stage for the development of targeted therapeutics. Sygnature Discovery’s pioneering approach brings hope to patients with unmet medical needs and paves the way for advancements in the field of neuroinflammatory disorders.

About Sygnature Discovery

Sygnature Discovery, a reputable provider of comprehensive resources and expertise in integrated drug discovery, stands at the forefront of the industry. Since its establishment in 2011, the organization has contributed significantly to the advancement of pharmaceutical research and development. Notably, over 40 compounds discovered by Sygnature for their clients have successfully progressed to pre-clinical development. Out of these, an impressive 22 compounds have advanced to various stages of clinical trials, including Phases I, II, and III. The exceptional contributions of Sygnature Discovery scientists have been acknowledged through their co-inventorship on over 160 patent applications submitted by their clients.

Sygnature Discovery brings immense value to its clients’ research projects by offering intellectual insights and drug discovery expertise throughout the entire process. Their capabilities span diverse areas, including medicinal chemistry, in vitro biology, computational chemistry and informatics, DMPK (drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics), and protein crystallography (facilitated through their affiliate company, Peak Proteins). Additionally, they provide support for pre-clinical experimental services via their sister company, RenaSci.

At the core of Sygnature Discovery’s operations is the commitment to creating value for their clients. They foster close collaborations and work hand-in-hand with their clients’ scientists to drive drug discovery projects towards clinical success. With a team of over 400 highly skilled professionals, including a significant percentage of PhD-qualified research scientists with extensive pharmaceutical industry experience, Sygnature Discovery operates on a level playing field to ensure optimal outcomes.

In summary, Sygnature Discovery offers a comprehensive range of services and capabilities, including target validation, hit identification, hit-to-lead, lead optimization, and integrated drug discovery programs. Their expertise extends to medicinal chemistry, in vitro biology encompassing biophysics and live cell imaging, computational chemistry, DMPK, protein crystallography, as well as drug form and formulation.

Visit sygnaturediscovery.com to learn more.

Engr. Dex Marco Tiu Guibelondo, BS Pharm, RPh, BS CpE

Editor-in-Chief, PharmaFEATURES