Peptide Mimotopes to Oxidation Specific Epitopes

Background

Autoantibodies specific for malondialdehyde-modified LDL (MDA-LDL) represent potential biomarkers to predict cardiovascular risk. However, MDA-LDL is a high variability antigen with limited reproducibility. To identify peptide mimotopes of MDA-LDL, phage display libraries were screened and the specificity and antigenic properties of MDA mimotopes were assessed in vitro and in vivo.

Technology Description

UCSD researchers have identified two peptide mimotopes that form a three dimensional representation of critical epitopes of MDA. These mimotopes have been shown to be representative of oxidation-specific epitopes that are proinflammatory and proatherogenic.

Applications

In conjunction with different carriers, the newly identified peptides can be used as immunogens to study the mechanistic role of MDA-specific immune responses in immunization studies, and may provide the basis for potential atheroprotective vaccines, and could also be useful as imaging agents for inflammatory sites and/or atherosclerotic lesions.

Patent Status

Patent Pending