Protein Engineering
Advancing therapeutic medicine through innovative protein surface charge modification technology
Research Foundation
Proteins and peptides are naturally occurring large molecules that contain ionic charges on their surfaces. Historically, the impact of these surface charges on protein functioning was not well understood. After conducting extensive research, we have concluded that modification of the surface charges of a protein may actually alter the conformation of the protein. That, in turn, allows the protein to gain some novel functions which differ from original proteins.
Breakthrough Discovery
For instance, amylase is known as a pancreatic enzyme or special protein that helps in the digestion of carbohydrates. For over five decades, this was the only functionality Amylase has been known for. Surprisingly, by using our advanced technology we have been able to modify the surface ionic charges of this protein and have discovered that amylase actually has anticancer and anti-inflammation activity.
Unexpectedly, apart from gaining new functions, some of these structure-modified proteins have also become acid-resistant. Thus, they become ideal for oral absorption. We used this methodology and created 7 proteins or peptides with novel functions that may be used for therapeutic purposes. For example, these new proteins can help treat diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and inflammation.
Therapeutic Applications
Our objective is to develop these modified proteins/peptides as new drugs to treat those diseases. Moreover, by leveraging our proprietary technology of protein modification, we can further create modified proteins with new functions that have various therapeutic values.