C04741: Method of clearing a DNA lesion to make DNA-related therapy more effectiveValue Proposition:
• This efficient process should provide the great force to design novel DNA cross-linking agents.
• From research point of view, this technology will greatly facilitate the study of the biological effects of this important family of DNA lesions.
Technical Details:
JHU scientists have discovered an efficient DNA interstrand cross-linking process. DNA is a target of many therapeutic agents used to treat genetic diseases, such as cancer. Maximum damage is desired when targeting DNA. Many cancer cells are hypoxic, which limits the effectiveness of therapies, such as gamma-radiolysis. This agent forms a potent form of a DNA lesion, an interstrand cross-link, when exposed to gamma-radiolysis under hypoxic conditions. Photodynamic therapy is also used to treat a variety of cancers. Singlet oxygen is produced during photodynamic therapy and DNA is one of its targets. This molecule reacts with singlet oxygen to produce interstrand cross-links, which are a highly cytotoxic form, and therefore desirable from the therapeutic standpoint, of DNA damage.
Looking for Partners:
• Potential therapeutic agent as a radiosensitizing agent or as an adjuvant in photodynamic therapy.
• Research tools for introducing DNA interstrand cross-links at defined sites.
Publications/Associated Cases:
• Hong IS, Greenberg MM. (2005) Efficient DNA interstrand cross-link formation from a nucleotide radical. J Am Chem Soc. 127(11):3692-3.
• Hong IS, Greenberg MM. (2005) DNA interstrand cross-link formation initiated by reaction between singlet oxygen and a modified nucleotide. J Am Chem Soc. 2005 Aug 3;127(30):10510-1.
