Wnt Pathway Modulators for HCMV Treatment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current anti-Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) therapies are limited, associated with significant side effects, and lead to the emergence of resistant viral mutants, necessitating the development of novel compounds with new mechanisms of action to effectively treat HCMV infections, particularly in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.

Innovation Solution

Modulation of the Wnt pathway using compounds such as monensin, nigericin, and salinomycin, which inhibit HCMV replication by targeting key proteins in the Wnt signaling pathway, thereby disrupting the virus's life cycle without affecting DNA replication initially.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional anti-HCMV therapies (viral DNA polymerase inhibitors) are used, then viral replication is inhibited, but significant side effects and emergence of resistant viral mutants occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveefficacy against HCMVVSAvoidside effects and viral resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the therapeutic parameter from targeting viral DNA polymerase to modulating the host Wnt signaling pathway. This fundamental parameter change allows inhibition of HCMV replication through a different biological mechanism, thereby avoiding the side effects and resistance issues associated with conventional DNA polymerase inhibitors while maintaining antiviral efficacy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces the Wnt signaling pathway as an intermediary system between the host cell and the virus. By modulating this host pathway rather than directly targeting the virus, the treatment achieves antiviral effects while reducing direct viral resistance and minimizing harmful side effects on the host

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If limited anti-HCMV agents are used, then treatment is available, but the number of effective compounds is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveavailability of treatment optionsVSAvoideffectiveness of therapy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent identifies the Wnt signaling pathway as a universal host pathway that can be targeted to treat HCMV infections. This approach provides a versatile therapeutic strategy that can be applied across different HCMV infection scenarios, expanding the availability of effective treatment options beyond the limited conventional agents

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9549914B2Treatment of human cytomegalovirus by modulating Wnt

Publication Date: 2017.01.24 JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

AI summary

The present invention relates to the field of virology. More specifically, the present invention provides methods and compositions useful for treating human cytomegalovirus using Wnt pathway modulators. In a specific embodiment, a method for treating human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in a patient in need thereof comprises administering an effective amount of Wnt pathway modulator.