POP3, a Novel Inflammasome Inhibitor and its Use Of

NU 2010-160 

Inventors 

Christian Stehlik 

Short Description

POP3 protein as a method to modulate inflammation

Abstract 

Northwestern researchers have identified a new member of the PYD-only protein (POPs) family (POP3) as a specific regulator of ALR inflammasomes, promoting IFN-beta production and reducing IL-1beta and IL-8 production. POP3 has the potential for biologic therapy for the modulation of the IL-1beta inflammatory response as well blocking the excessive production of cytokines in inflammatory and autoimmune disease. POP3 could be employed to specifically block IL-1beta generation found in DNA virus and bacteria-induced inflammasome activation; as well as DNA-driven autoimmune disease. Conversely, neutralization of POP3 could be used to boost immune responses for adjuvent activity or to help clear infections.

Applications

• Development of POP3-based inflammasome inhibitors to prevent IL-1beta release
• Neutralization of POP3 to boost adjuvent activity or aid in clearing infections

Advantages

• Potential to inhibit specific inflammatory responses
• If neutralized, could boost immune responsiveness

Publications

Khare S, Ratsimandresy R, Almeida L, Cuda C, Rellick S, Misharin A, Wallin M, Gangopadhyay A, Forte E, Gottwein E, PErman H, Reed J, Greaves D, Dorfleutner A and Stehlik C (2014) The PYRIN domain-only protein POP3 inhibits ALR inflammasomes and regulates responses to infection with DNA viruses. Nature Immunology. 15(4): 343-53. 

IP Status

US patent and PCT applications have been filed.