Novel treatments for the mucus accumulation at chronic lung diseases

Introduction

The aim of this proof of concept is to develop novel therapies based on the discoveries made during the AdvERC grant on mucus and mucins in the lung and intestine.

Background

The discovery that the XX protein is absent or almost absent in healthy individuals and animals, and heavily increased in human COPD and induced lung disease in animals, made us study this.

Findings

During the ERC grant, we discovered that XX is anchoring and attaching the lung mucus by forming a cap on the accumulated mucus. In the absence of XX, the mucus is non-attached and transported even better than normal.

Molecular Structure

We have now determined the detailed molecular structure of the XX and learned how this protein can form long, large polymers by non-covalent interactions.

Future Directions

We will now develop inhibitory peptides, proteins, antibodies, or small organic molecules to be used as therapeutic drugs for detaching the attached mucus at:

1. Cystic Fibrosis
2. Chronic bronchitis
3. COPD
4. Other lung diseases with mucus accumulation.