Technology ID
TAB-2499

Adeno-Associated Virus Gene Therapy for Diabetes and Obesity

E-Numbers
E-142-2011-0
Lead Inventor
Chiorini, John (Jay) (NIDCR)
Co-Inventors
Di Pasquale, Giovanni (NIDCR)
Mannucci, Edward (Careggi Teaching Hospital)
Applications
Therapeutics
Development Status
  • Early-stage
  • In vitro data available
  • In vivo data available (animal)
Lead IC
NIDCR
ICs
NIDCR
This invention is directed to adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector delivery of exendin-4 (Ex-4) to salivary glands as treatment for diabetes and obesity. Ex-4 is a potent and long-acting agonist of the receptor for glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). Scientists at NIDCR have shown that AAV-mediated delivery of Ex-4 resulted in improved glucose homeostasis and weight profile in two rat models of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Further, AAV-mediated delivery of Ex-4 to rat salivary glands resulted in localized and sustained expression of Ex-4 that was biologically active and well tolerated.

AAV-mediated delivery of Ex-4 is superior to administering GLP-1 analogs in that AAV-Ex-4 expression is more stable and longer acting. Like GLP-1 analogs, Ex-4 expression also potentially provides beneficial effects like reduced hypoglycemia, appetite suppression, and potential weight loss.
Commercial Applications
  • Therapy for diabetes or obesity.
Competitive Advantages
  • Potential for potent glucose homeostasis therapy with longer duration than current drugs.
  • More convenient than daily or weekly injections.
Licensing Contact:
Knezevic, Vladimir
vlado.knezevic@nih.gov