Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening genetic disorder where thick mucus is primarily built up in the lungs, causing severe respiratory problems and complications (such as bacterial infection and inflammation).
Pulmonary surfactant is a protein-lipid mixture secreted by epithelial cells which spread as a continuous film at the air–liquid interface in the lungs. Increased cholesterol and oxidized phospholipid levels contribute to dysfunction of pulmonary surfactant. Cystic fibrosis, is also characterised by such a surfactant dysfunction. Lipid-sequestering agents, such as cyclodextrins, have a therapeutic potential by restoring pulmonary surfactant function.
By chemical modification, Okklo designed cyclodextrins are able to optimally scavenge and detoxify these (oxidized) lipids from the surfactant.
This program is performed in close collaboration with Solaeromed Inc. (Calgary Canada).