Use of SDF-1 and other CXCR4 Agonists to Antagonize TLR4

Reference #:

2005-003

Inventors/Contributors

Jeffrey L. Platt M.D., Gregory J. Brunn Ph.D.

Description

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) transmits signals to various cells and in so doing can cause inflammation, the sepsis syndrome, immunity, atherosclerosis, and obesity, among other problems. Widespread activation of TLR4 gives rise to the systemic inflammatory response syndrome following major trauma and/or infection, a condition that is often fatal. We have discovered that CXCR4, a chemokine receptor, inhibits signaling through TLR4 and that this inhibition is promoted by SDF-1, the agonist for CXCR4. (See "Selective suppression of Toll-like receptor 4 activation by chemokine receptor 4," FEBS Letters. 579(3): 699-704, 2005 Jan. 31).

Patent Status

Pending