Polyarteritis Nodosa
Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) primarily affects the muscular arteries, leading to organ damage and dysfunction. Our company, a leading autoimmune diseases research organization, is at the forefront of providing comprehensive services for the development of diagnostics and therapies for polyarteritis nodosa.
Overview of Polyarteritis Nodosa
Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN), also known as panarteritis nodosa, is a systemic vasculitis that predominantly targets medium-sized arteries. It is characterized by immune-mediated inflammation that results in the formation of nodules, aneurysms, and vessel wall damage. PAN primarily affects vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and peripheral nerves. The pathogenesis of PAN involves the dysregulation of the immune system, leading to the activation of immune cells and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The immune response targets the arterial walls, triggering vasculitis and subsequent tissue damage. Key players in the pathogenesis include T cells, B cells, neutrophils, and dendritic cells.
Fig.1 A diagnostic algorithm for unknown origin of coronary artery lesions. (Lai J., et al., 2021)
Drug Discovery and Development for Polyarteritis Nodosa
In recent years, advances have been made in the development of targeted therapies for PAN. Biologic agents, including anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) drugs like infliximab and etanercept, have shown promising results in controlling the disease and reducing the need for high-dose glucocorticoids. These biologics specifically target the pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in PAN pathogenesis, providing a more targeted approach to therapeutics. Other immunosuppressive agents, such as cyclophosphamide and methotrexate, are used in cases of severe PAN or when glucocorticoids alone are inadequate. These drugs help to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. However, their use requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects.
Shown below are our company's diversified therapy development platforms, which can meet your various needs in polyarteritis nodosa research and realize customized therapy development solutions. If you are interested, please click on the link below to learn more.
Our Services
At our company, we are dedicated to advancing the field of polyarteritis nodosa diagnostics and therapy development. Our company provides comprehensive preclinical research services to support the development of novel therapies for PAN. Our experienced team of researchers conducts in-depth investigations, including mechanism of action studies, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology assessments.
Spontaneous Arteritis Models
The spontaneous arteritis observed in our outbred mice provides a valuable model for studying PAN. These mice exhibit histological and distribution similarities to peri-arteritis nodosa.
Cynomolgus Macaque PAN Models
Our company also offers a cynomolgus macaque model for studying PAN. Cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis) have been recognized as valuable animal models due to their genetic and physiological similarities to humans.
Our company offers the development of cell-based models, including the cultivation of specific disease-relevant cell types, such as endothelial cells, immune cells, and smooth muscle cells, to recreate the pathological conditions seen in PAN. By co-culturing immune cells, such as monocytes, macrophages, and T cells, with endothelial cells, we can simulate the inflammatory environment observed in PAN.
Through the differentiation of endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, we can generate vascular organoids that mimic the structure and function of blood vessels. These models enable the investigation of vascular remodeling, endothelial dysfunction, and immune cell infiltration, all of which are hallmarks of PAN.
With a team of highly skilled scientists, cutting-edge facilities, and an unwavering dedication to excellence, our company is well-positioned to make substantial advancements in the field of polyarteritis nodosa. In addition to the aforementioned services and models, we also provide customized solutions and develop disease models that cater specifically to your unique needs. If our services have piqued your interest, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Reference
- Lai Jinzhi, et al. "Characteristics and outcomes of coronary artery involvement in polyarteritis nodosa." Canadian Journal of Cardiology 37.6 (2021): 895-903.