Summary of Invention
Inhibition of protein palmitoylation represents a novel mechanism by which long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids exert their immunosuppressive effects. Therefore, inhibiting palmitoylation may be useful in treating patients with autoimmune (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus) or inflammatory diseases. Since a palmitate analog, 2-bromopalmitate, effectively inhibits palmitoylation, administering a pharmacologically effective dose of 2-bromopalmitate to a patient would be a novel approach in the treatment of these diseases.
Advantages
Low-cost and stable compound.
Areas of Application
Therapeutic drug for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Stage of Development
Proof of principle in cell culture.
Lead Inventor
Dr. Marilyn D. Resh
Patent Information
US patent 6,890,954
References
Webb Y, et al. J Biol Chem. 275:261-270 (2000).
Contact Information
Viviane Martin, PhD
Tel: 212-639-6181; Fax: 212-717-3439
E-mail: martinv@mskcc.org
