In a groundbreaking development, scientists at the University of Bath have leveraged the distinctive properties of a tropical flower to transform the pharmaceutical industry’s approach to drug development. Drawing inspiration from nature, the research team focused on enhancing drug stability and effectiveness through a technique derived from the Oldenlandia affinis, a small yet potent purple flower.
Traditionally, drug treatments have targeted disease-related proteins to impede their activity. However, the limitations of using small molecules for this purpose, particularly in blocking protein interactions, have prompted a shift in the pharmaceutical industry toward exploring small proteins known as peptides. This shift holds the promise of advancing drug discovery methodologies.
A significant challenge in utilizing peptides and proteins as drug candidates lies in their structural vulnerability. They are prone to unraveling, sensitive to high temperatures, and face challenges in penetrating cells where crucial drug targets reside. The University of Bath team has addressed these issues with a novel solution.
The technique involves creating “cyclic” proteins and peptides by connecting their start and end points. This process enhances their stability against heat and chemicals, facilitating improved cell penetration. The researchers utilized the enzyme OaAEP1 from Oldenlandia affinis, modifying and integrating it into bacterial cells for mass production. This innovative approach offers higher yields, employs sustainable biologically-friendly reagents, simplifies the process, and reduces costs.
To showcase the effectiveness of their method, the researchers applied their bacterial OaAEP1 technology to a protein called DHFR. The results demonstrated increased temperature resistance while maintaining the protein’s normal function.
This groundbreaking discovery carries significant implications for the drug discovery industry. Professor Jody Mason from the University of Bath’s Department of Life Sciences highlighted the importance of this breakthrough, emphasizing that cyclization renders proteins and peptides much more robust. By harnessing the superpower of the Oldenlandia plant, the researchers have created a powerful tool that will aid in drug discovery.
The potential applications of this technique extend beyond the pharmaceutical industry. Dr. Simon Tang, a research associate in the University of Bath Department of Life Sciences, underscored its relevance in the food industry, detergent industry, biotechnology, and bioenergy production.
The researchers have filed a patent for this groundbreaking technique. Their study, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society Gold, marks a significant stride forward in drug development, opening new avenues for more effective and accessible treatments.
What is the significance of using the tropical flower in drug development?
The tropical flower, Oldenlandia affinis, possesses a unique quality of naturally creating cyclic proteins as part of its defense mechanism. By harnessing this superpower and modifying the flower’s enzyme, scientists at the University of Bath have developed a technique that allows for the creation of more stable and effective drugs.
Why are cyclic proteins and peptides important in drug development?
Cyclic proteins and peptides offer improved stability against heat and chemicals, making them more robust as drug candidates. They also facilitate easier cell penetration, which is crucial for targeting disease-related proteins and delivering the desired therapeutic effects.
How does the new technique simplify the drug development process?
The new technique developed by the researchers at the University of Bath involves using bacterial cells to produce cyclic proteins and peptides. This approach offers higher yields, uses sustainable reagents, and reduces the number of steps required in the production process, making it simpler and more cost-effective.
What other industries could benefit from this breakthrough?
In addition to the pharmaceutical industry, the food industry, detergent industry, biotechnology sector, and bioenergy production can all potentially benefit from this breakthrough. The technique’s applications extend beyond drug development, offering opportunities for innovation and improved processes in various fields.
