Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by raised scaly patches of dry skin that can be itchy, painful, and interfere with daily activities, psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system. While there is no cure for psoriasis, treatments such as emollients, vitamin D analogs, vitamin A, and corticosteroids can help manage the symptoms.
Recently, scientists at the University of Birmingham made a groundbreaking discovery in the treatment of psoriasis. They found that a sequence of just three amino acids, derived from a natural peptide called PEPITEM, could reduce the severity of psoriasis when applied topically in an emollient cream. This discovery has the potential to revolutionize the way psoriasis is treated, offering a safer and more effective alternative to traditional therapies.
The researchers identified two tripeptide sequences that showed biological activity comparable to the full-length PEPITEM molecule. These sequences were optimized for stability in the body and tested for their ability to reduce immune cell activation and migration, key factors in inflammatory diseases like psoriasis. The results were promising, with the tripeptide sequences showing at least the same activity as the original PEPITEM molecule.
In animal studies, the researchers found that topical application of the tripeptide sequence in an emollient cream resulted in a significant reduction in psoriasis symptoms. The tripeptide sequence was able to reduce the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score by 50%, making it comparable to a commonly used steroid cream. This finding is particularly significant as steroid creams can only be used for short periods due to their side effects, whereas the tripeptide sequence derived from PEPITEM showed fewer ‘off target’ effects.
The researchers are now exploring the potential of PEPITEM-derived peptides for the treatment of other inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and lupus. By targeting the underlying cause of these conditions – chronic inflammation – PEPITEM-derived peptides could offer a new approach to managing these diseases.
The study has generated significant interest in the scientific community, with the University of Birmingham filing several patent families related to PEPITEM and its therapeutic potential. The research team is actively seeking investment, licensing, partnering, and collaborative research opportunities to further develop this groundbreaking treatment.
In conclusion, the discovery of a tripeptide sequence derived from PEPITEM offers new hope for individuals suffering from psoriasis and other inflammatory diseases. With its ability to reduce inflammation and immune cell activation, this novel treatment has the potential to transform the way these conditions are managed. As research progresses, we may see PEPITEM-derived peptides become a key player in the fight against chronic inflammation and its associated diseases.
