Methods for Treatment of Latent Viral Infections

Inventor: Paul Lieberman

Tech ID: LP-0001

Description: Many DNA viruses, such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), and human herpes viruses (HHV) persist long term in a latent state in the infected host cells. These latent infections are insensitive to treatment yet they can be reactivated by a variety of physiological factors. During latent infection, the DNA virus is contained in an episomal (e.g. outside the chromosome) maintenance element.

Scientists at Wistar have identified a group of enzymes that interact with the episomal DNA. The interaction between these enzymes and the episomal maintenance element is necessary for DNA viruses to be maintained in the latent state of the host cells. Molecules that inhibit this interaction cause the episome to be expelled from the host cell, thus eliminating the latent viral infection. This trait may be used to develop screening assays to identify new antiviral therapeutic agents.

Key Words: antiviral, therapeutic, screening, infectious

Applications and Advantages: This technology can be used to identify compounds that may effectively treat latent infection by DNA viruses such as EBV, CMV, and HSV.

Intellectual Property Status: International and U.S. patent applications have been filed.

Licensing Opportunity: This technology is available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.

Contact:

Meryle J. Melnicoff
Director, Business Development
The Wistar Institute
3601 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: (215) 898-0049
Fax: (215) 573-2456
melnicoff@wistar.org

Last updated: Aug-02