Predicting Response to Therapy for Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases Using a Folate Receptor-Targeted

Lindsay E Kelderhouse1, Sakkarapalayam Mahalingam1, Philip S Low2

  • 1Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, 720 Clinic Drive, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.

Abstract

Insights

A novel dye, OTL0038, can predict treatment response in inflammatory diseases. This near-infrared dye accumulates in inflamed tissues, indicating therapeutic efficacy in animal models.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Current therapies for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases show variable patient responses.
  • Identifying non-responders early is crucial to prevent disease progression and reduce healthcare costs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the utility of OTL0038, a folate receptor-targeted near-infrared dye, in predicting therapeutic responses.
  • To assess OTL0038's efficacy across diverse inflammatory disease models.

Main Methods:

  • Four murine models of inflammatory disease were established (rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, pulmonary fibrosis, atherosclerosis).
  • Mice received anti-inflammatory treatments and were injected with OTL0038.
  • OTL0038 uptake in inflamed lesions was correlated with clinical disease severity.

Main Results:

  • OTL0038 demonstrated accumulation at inflammation sites in all four disease models.
  • Changes in OTL0038 uptake in lesions preceded clinical symptom changes.
  • This predictive capability was observed across all tested anti-inflammatory drugs.

Conclusions:

  • OTL0038 serves as a reliable predictor of therapeutic response in multiple inflammatory conditions.
  • The dye's ability to detect early treatment effects offers a potential tool for personalized medicine in autoimmune diseases.

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