Development of Chimeric LPS Structures in E. Coli
- Detailed Technology Description
- Researchers at the University of Iowa have discovered essential genes in pathogenic bacteria, such as H. influenzae, that produce the LPS and LOS membrane lipids associated with activation of the host immune system. Inventor: Michael A. ApicellaProfessor of Microbiologyhttp://www.uiowa.edu/~microbio/apicella.shtml
- *Abstract
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Background
H. influenzae is the bacterial cause of influenza in human hosts. Infections associated with colonization by this bacteria are responsible for significant direct and indirect costs as well as death in immunocompromised individuals. Current attempts at a vaccine targeting this bacteria are specific for certain sub-types of the species. A vaccine is needed that can protect against infection across subtypes of H. influenzae.
Technology
Researchers at the University of Iowa have discovered essential genes in pathogenic bacteria, such as H. influenzae, that produce the LPS and LOS membrane lipids associated with activation of the host immune system. The core structure of LOS and LPS are present in many bacteria, however, unless certain carbohydrate components are added to this core, it does not produce an immunologic response. Studies have shown that the genes which encode the proteins responsible for these carbohydrate additions are wecA (formerly rfe) and the LOS synthesis gene (lsg) operon, including genes lsgA through lsgH. When these genetic elements are added to E. coli or related bacteria, the necessary carbohydrates are added to the endogenous E. coli core structure and an LOS which immunologically-mimics that of H. influenzae is created. This process produces LOS & LPS that could be used for vaccine preparation or further research applications.
Advantages
NON-PATHOGENIC SOURCE. The potential dangers associated with LPS/LOS-based vaccination from a pathogen source are eliminated because the pathogenic bacteria has been eliminated from the production process.
COST-EFFECTIVE PRODUCTION. E. coli is easy and cost effective to work with. In addition, the added expenses associated with protection of workers from pathogenic bacteria are eliminated.
Patent Link
UIRF has been awarded a patent for this technology (6,743,607).
- *Licensing
- Shannon Sheehan, Ph.D., M.B.A.Senior Licensing AssociateUniversity of Iowa Research FoundationEmail: shannon-sheehan@uiowa.eduPhone: (319) 335-4605
- Country/Region
- USA
