Novel PKCzeta/PKMzeta Inhibitor

Background:

During learning, neurons produce an enzyme called PKMzeta, an autonomously active form of PKCzeta, which is responsible for maintaining newly strengthened connections between neurons and for memory. Numerous memory and mood disorders, and other conditions such as neuropathic pain, are believed to be due to pathological processes related to memory, including processes involving activity of PKMzeta. Compounds that could cross the blood-brain barrier and enter cell membranes to contact intracellular PKMzeta, within neurons, are therefore desirable, such as for use as treatments for various mood- and memory-related disorders or neuropathic pain.

Technology Overview:

This SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University technology is an inhibitor that selectively affects PKMzeta activity, without affecting other PKC isoforms such as PKCalpha, PKCbeta, or PKCiota/lambda. This compound is capable of penetrating cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier. This provides a method for manipulating memory and cellular processes related to memory formation and recall. This, in turn, offers the potential for modifying activity of molecular mechanisms related to memory and associated neural processes, offering the possibility of treating mental states and behavioral tendencies. This could form the basis of new and novel treatments for stress, addiction, and neuropathic pain.

Advantages:

• Selectively affects PKMzeta activity, without affecting other PKC isoforms
• Can penetrate cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier

Applications:

The primary applications for this technology include treatment for disorders such as:

• Neuropathic pain
• Post-traumatic stress
• Addiction

Intellectual Property Summary:

This technology is covered by the patent application WO/2019/075453, Memory manipulation via modification of protein kinase C zeta activity. 

Stage of Development:

Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 3 - Experimental proof of concept. 

Licensing Status:

This technology is available for licensing.

Licensing Potential:

This technology will be of value to any company or institution involved in treating memory disorders and/or neuropathic pain. This includes:

• Manufacturers of pharmaceutical treatments
• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation facilities