Compositions and methods of using lamellar bodies for modifying linear biological macromolecules

Abstract

Compositions comprising therapeutically effective amounts of lamellar bodies for the modification of linear macromolecules are disclosed. These lamellar compositions are useful in the treatment of conditions or diseases characterized by a preponderance of heavy mucous secretions, such as otitis media, cystic fibrosis, bronchitis, sinusitis and nasal congestion. Methods of treating these diseases and conditions by administering a therapeutically effective amount of a composition to a patient requiring such treatment are also disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application claims priority to UK application No. GB0322448.2, filed on Sep. 25, 2003, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Applicants claim the benefit of this application under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (a-d). FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to the identification of lamellar bodies which modify linear biological macromolecules that may be present in physiological and pathophysiological secretions and exudates, such as mucus, DNA, actin and bacterial-derived alginate, with respect to their physical properties, viscosity, adhesiveness, liquidity and three-dimensional disposition. The invention further relates to compositions and methods of treatment using these lamellar bodies. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] There are a number of occasions and sites where it would be beneficial to modify linear biological macromolecules, such as in disease states and during surger...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0027] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides for a method for applying a composition including lamellar bodies to the respiratory passages to modify the physical properties of linear macromolecules of the type mucus, DNA, actin and alginate in pathologically altered secretions. The lamellar bodies modify the viscosity and adhesiveness of the secretions, increasing the fluidity of the airways' surface fluid and restoring mucociliary clearance of secretions throughout the respiratory tract. In a preferred embodiment, the composition containi

Problems solved by technology

There are no biologically efficacious substances or methods typically used for alteration or removal of these species of macromolecules, which in pathological situations can result in acute and chronic morbidity and mortality.

These ill-defined archaic terms are still in use and have