DEVELOPMENT PIPELINE
We are developing novel topical and oral TRPV3 inhibitors for the treatment of rare dermatologic diseases of CA++ regulation.
Topical cream for the treatment of Lichen simplex chronicus related itch
A topical cream is being developed for the relief of itch associated with Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC).
Topical cream for the treatment of Palmoplantar Keratoderma
Topical cream for the treatment of Palmoplantar Keratoderma (PPK) a group of rare skin conditions with great unmet need.
Oral dermatology treatment for severe rare skin conditions of Keratoderma and Ichthyosis
Advanced oral treatment for severe Keratoderma and ichthyosis conditions such as Olmsted syndrome.
Lichen simplex chronicus
A topical cream is developed for the relief of itch associated with Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC).
Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is a chronic pruritic condition characterized by areas of thickened skin resulting from repeated rubbing or scratching. It may present with associated dryness, scaling, or redness (erythema). Commonly affected areas include the neck, ankles, extremities, scalp, and genital region. Currently, there is no effective therapy for LSC related itch, which negatively impacts the quality of life for approximately 12% of the adult population.
The Palmoplantar Keratodermas
The Palmoplantar Keratodermas (PPKs), are a group of rare skin conditions that result from various mutations in several epidermal genes. Mild to moderate PPK’s are characterized by thickening of the skin on the palms and soles leading to great discomfort, itch and pain. The PPKs include diseases such as Punctuate PPK, Pachyonychia Congenita (PC) and Mal de Meleda, all of which have significant unmet medical need.
Oral dermatology treatment for severe rare skin conditions of Keratoderma and Ichthyosis
Olmsted syndrome and severe palmoplantar keratoderma
In Olmsted Syndrome is a disease involving extreme skin thickening (keratoderma) and ichthyosis (itching). In this disease, multiple ‘gain-of-function’ mutations result in the TRPV3 channel remaining constantly open, and CA++ flooding into cells. This ultra-rare condition is characterized by the development of severe and sometimes mutilating hyperkeratotic plaques, diffuse baldness (alopecia), extreme itch (pruritus), and debilitating pain.
Ichthyosis
The ichthyoses are a group of diseases also called disorders of keratinization or disorders of cornification. They are characterized by generalized scaling of the skin in varying severity with or without erythroderma. Most ichthyols disease forms are inherited but acquired forms can develop in the setting of certain cancers, autoimmune or infectious disease, or nutritional deficiency.
Harlequin Ichthyosis
One of the most severe of the Ichthyoses is Harlequin Ichthyosis (HI). Presenting at birth, infants born with this ultra rare condition are covered in thick plate-like scales of skin. The tightness of the skin pulls around the eyes and the mouth, forcing the eyelids and lips to turn inside out, revealing the red inner linings. The chest and abdomen of the infant may be severely restricted by the tightness of the skin, making breathing and eating difficult. HI is often fatal and patients die due to complications of sepsis, dehydration, or respiratory failure. There are currently no treatments available for those who suffer from HI, other than supportive care.
