Role of Inflammasomes in Diseases
Inflammasomes are large protein complexes that result in aberrant/increased cytokine production in more than twenty-four different prevalent and rare inflammatory diseases. The immense interest in targeting inflammasomes for treating diseases has been well established, as demonstrated by the growing list of scientific publications, the ongoing public and private investments in this field and acquisitions of inflammasome focused companies by large pharmaceutical companies.
IMMvention is developing therapies that inhibit multiple inflammasome pathways that result in increased cytokine production that at the root cause of some of the following diseases.
Rheumatic Diseases
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, occurs when there is a breakdown of joint cartilage and the underlying bone, most commonly from middle age onward. It causes pain and stiffness, especially in the hip, knee, or thumb joints, and may also contribute to reduced function and disability.
Systemic Juvenile
Idiopathic Arthritis
Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) (and the adult version of sJIA known as adult-onset Still's Disease [AOSD]) are autoinflammatory diseases that can cause fever, rash, and joint swelling and pain, among other signs and symptoms. One of the most serious potential complications of sJIA is macrophage activation syndrome, a condition of overwhelming inflammation that can be fatal. In addition, individuals with sJIA can experience damage to joints and organs over time, leading to reduced function and disability.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is typically a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Inflammation occurs which causes damage to the myelin (which covers the nerve fibers), the nerve fibers themselves, and the cells that make myelin in the brain and spinal cord. This causes communication issues between the brain and the rest of the body, Over time, the damage and communication issues cause reduced function and disability.
Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by progressive memory loss and dementia with abnormal protein build-up and tangled bundles of fibers (neurofibrillary tangles) in the brain. Another feature is a loss of connection between never cells in the brain, affecting communication in the brain and between the brain and the body. Over time, the damage to the brain and communication and issues cause reduced function and disability
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disease that is characterized by tremors, muscular rigidity/stiffness, slowed movements, and difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination. It happens when nerve cells in the brain are impaired or die and no longer produce enough of a brain chemical called dopamine. Other changes occur as well contributing to signs and symptoms. Over time, the disease causes reduced function and disability.
