DECOMPACT · Development of Collagenase Polymeric nanocapsules as Therapeutics

“Developments of Collagenase Polymeric nanocapsules as Therapeutics (DECOMPACT)”. The goal of this proof of concept project is the development and commercialization of a novel treatment to scleroderma. Scleroderma is a fibrotic disease with a significant incidence in the population and is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of collagen. Treatment of this disease involves the use of proteolytic enzymes, as collagenase, able to digest collagen fibers. However, the labile nature of collagenase compromises its activity in the human body. DECOMPACT purposes the development of polymeric-collagenase nanocapsules that protect the housed enzymes against external insults and are able to release them by UVA irradiation exposition. UVA irradiation has been selected as trigger release stimuli due to its capacity to induce both anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive effects and to enhance collagenase production in situ. These novel stimuli-responsive nanodevices would combine the ability of the proteolytic enzyme to degrade collagen with the immunosuppressant and anti-inflammatory effects of UVA. The methodology to obtain the system is based on previous results achieved in the context of the Advance Grant ERC-2015-AdG Proposal No.694160, VERDI. The work plan involves the synthesis of a library of UVA-sensitive cross-linkers which form the nanodevice, studies of UVA-responsive and evaluation of collagen digestion ability both in vitro employing 3D collagen matrices with skin cells embedded and in vivo using a scleroderma mouse model. This project supposes an important innovation respect to conventional treatments and could provide important social-economic benefits to the society. Finally, DECOMPACT embraces a work plan considering the commercialization steps which are required in order to place this technology in the market. The work team involved in this project includes specialized professionals in nanotechnology and medical doctors expert in fibrotic diseases.