Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of the nonadecapeptide Moli1901 in rats and mice

M J McNulty1, R H Hutabarat, J W A Findlay

  • 1GlaxoSmithKline, Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.

Insights

Moli1901 (duramycin) demonstrated significant deposition and prolonged retention in the respiratory tract following aerosol administration in rats. This suggests potential for treating respiratory diseases due to its pulmonary persistence.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacokinetics
  • Drug Delivery
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Moli1901 (duramycin) is a 19 amino acid polycyclic peptide.
  • Understanding the pharmacokinetic profile of Moli1901 is crucial for its therapeutic development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the disposition and pharmacokinetic profile of radiolabeled Moli1901 in rats and mice.
  • To assess the potential of Moli1901 for treating respiratory diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Administration of aerosolized, radiolabeled Moli1901 to rats.
  • Oral and intravenous administration of radiolabeled Moli1901 to rats and mice.
  • Quantification of radiolabel in various tissues, blood, urine, and feces over time.

Main Results:

  • Aerosolized Moli1901 showed high deposition and prolonged retention (half-life of 64 days) in the rat respiratory tract with minimal systemic absorption.
  • Oral administration resulted in low absorption and rapid fecal excretion.
  • Intravenous administration led to significant carcass retention (44%), primarily in the liver, with elimination via feces and urine.
  • Plasma concentrations remained very low across all administration routes and species.

Conclusions:

  • Prolonged retention of Moli1901 in pulmonary tissue supports its potential utility in treating respiratory diseases.
  • The pharmacokinetic profile suggests targeted delivery and sustained release in the lungs.
  • Further investigation into Moli1901's efficacy for respiratory conditions is warranted.