Do they clear the plaques?

The Promise of Cyclodextrins in Combating Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, is characterized by the buildup of cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls, forming plaques that can restrict blood flow. Traditional treatments have focused on lowering cholesterol levels and managing symptoms, but recent advancements in the use of cyclodextrins offer a promising new approach.

What Are Cyclodextrins?

Cyclodextrins are cyclic oligosaccharides that can form inclusion complexes with various molecules, including cholesterol. This unique ability allows them to solubilize and remove cholesterol from tissues, making them a potential therapeutic agent for atherosclerosis.

Eicke Latz’s Research: A Deeper Understanding

Eicke Latz’s groundbreaking research has providedthe foundations and valuable insights into the mechanisms by which cyclodextrins exert their effects. His studies have shown that cyclodextrins can reduce cholesterol crystal-induced inflammation by modulating complement activation and reducing the deposition of inflammatory molecules on cholesterol crystals. This dual action not only helps in clearing cholesterol but also in mitigating the inflammatory response that drives atherosclerosis progression .

Cyclarity Therapeutics: Pioneering Cyclodextrin-Based Treatments

Cyclarity Therapeutics has been at the forefront of developing cyclodextrin-based therapies for atherosclerosis. Their research focuses on using cyclodextrins to dissolve cholesterol crystals within plaques using speficially designed cyclodextrin dimers that target 7-ketocholesterol, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting plaque regression. Preclinical data have shown promising results, with significant reductions in plaque size and improved arterial health. Clinical trials first human are about to start soon.

Beren Therapeutics: Targeting Inflammation

Beren Therapeutics is exploring the anti-inflammatory properties of cyclodextrins. Their studies have demonstrated that cyclodextrins can modulate the immune response by reducing the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a key player in the inflammatory process associated with atherosclerosis. This approach not only helps in reducing plaque formation but also in stabilizing existing plaques, making them less likely to rupture and cause heart attacks or strokes.

While the companies is in stealth mode, there are several patents in their posession about uses of cyclodextrin in atherosclerosis, familiar hypercholesterolaemia and further cardiovascular disorders. Moreover, Beren is the strategic partner of the cyclodextrin giant, Roquette .

Atherocare: Enhancing Cholesterol Efflux

Atherocare is leveraging the cholesterol-binding properties of cyclodextrins to enhance cholesterol efflux from macrophages, the immune cells that accumulate cholesterol and contribute to plaque formation. By promoting the removal of cholesterol from these cells, Atherocare aims to reduce the overall burden of atherosclerosis and improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Atherocare promote a non-prescription (non-drug) application of cyclodextrin administered as rectal solutions.

Conclusion

The use of cyclodextrins in treating atherosclerosis represents a novel and promising approach that targets both cholesterol accumulation and inflammation. With ongoing research and clinical trials by companies like Cyclarity Therapeutics, Beren Therapeutics, and Atherocare, along with the pioneering work of researchers like Eicke Latz, the future looks hopeful for more effective and targeted therapies for atherosclerosis. As these treatments continue to develop, they hold the potential to significantly reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases and improve the quality of life for millions of patients worldwide.

Beyond the companies and researchers listed here, many more are dealing with this research topic which improves the chances of developing meaningful nove therapies in the area.

What do you think about the potential of cyclodextrins in treating atherosclerosis?

I would be delighted to hear suggestions for upcoming topics and engage in Q&A, so please feel free to add your impressions in the comments or via email at [email protected] . Thank you.

In the coming weeks, we will continue focusing on using cyclodextrins as active ingredients, disease by disease. Stay tuned!

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