Psoriasis
Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting a significant portion of the global population, presents a pressing need for effective therapy options. As a distinguished company specializing in CRO and autoimmune disease research, Our company is at the forefront of advancing the understanding and therapy development of psoriasis.
Introduction to Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a complex dermatological condition characterized by the rapid proliferation of skin cells, resulting in the formation of thickened, scaly patches known as plaques. These plaques often appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back, causing physical discomfort and emotional distress to those affected. Psoriasis is driven by an overactive immune response, particularly involving T helper 17 (Th17) cells and the release of cytokines such as interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-23 (IL-23), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). These cytokines contribute to the recruitment and activation of immune cells, leading to inflammation and the abnormal growth of keratinocytes. Targeting these pathways has become a focus of drug and therapy development.
Fig.1 Immunopathogenesis of psoriasis. (Vičić, M., et al., 2021)
Drug Discovery and Development for Psoriasis
Small molecule inhibitors offer a promising avenue for psoriasis therapeutics. These compounds target specific molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. For example, apremilast, an oral small molecule inhibitor, modulates intracellular signaling pathways involved in inflammation and immune responses. Biologic therapies, including monoclonal antibodies and fusion proteins, have revolutionized the therapeutic of psoriasis. These therapies specifically target key molecules involved in the immune response, such as TNF, IL-17, and IL-23. Our company is dedicated to advancing the therapeutics of psoriasis through innovative drug and therapy development approaches.
Our expertise spans a wide range of strategies including small molecule inhibitors and biotherapeutics as well as other therapies, if you would like to learn more please click on the link below.
Our Services
Accurate diagnosis plays a pivotal role in the development of effective therapies. At our company, we offer cutting-edge diagnostics development services that leverage genetic testing and biomarker analysis to assist in the identification and classification of different subtypes of psoriasis. Moreover, we specialize in the development and characterization of animal models specific to psoriasis, enabling us to evaluate the efficacy and safety of potential therapies.
Animal Models
- Xenograft Model Development Services
By engrafting psoriatic skin biopsies onto immunodeficient mice, we can recreate the complex immune response observed in human psoriasis. This model enables the evaluation of novel therapies targeting immune cells, cytokines, and other molecular pathways involved in psoriasis pathogenesis. Our expert team ensures meticulous monitoring and characterization of the xenograft models, providing you with reliable and reproducible data. - Genetically Engineered Model Development Services
CD18 deficiency has been linked to the development of psoriasis in humans. By introducing CD18 hypomorphic mutations into mice, we can mimic the human condition and study the impact of impaired leukocyte adhesion on psoriasis progression. This model facilitates the investigation of novel therapeutic targets and the evaluation of potential drug candidates. - Induction Model Development Services
Induction models involve the induction of psoriasis-like skin inflammation in mice through various stimuli, such as cytokine injections or topical application of specific compounds. Our company provides comprehensive Induction Model Development services to support your research endeavors.
Our preclinical research services involve conducting in vitro experiments and animal model development to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of potential therapeutic candidates. We employ state-of-the-art techniques and technologies to assess drug pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and immunomodulatory effects. This rigorous preclinical testing ensures the optimal selection and development of therapeutic candidates for subsequent trials.
Cytokine-Induced Psoriasis Model
One commonly used induction model involves the injection of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-23, IL-17, or IL-22, into mouse skin. These cytokines play a crucial role in psoriasis pathogenesis, and their injection elicits a robust inflammatory response, mimicking key features of human psoriasis.
Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis Model
Another widely employed induction model is the topical application of imiquimod, a TLR7 agonist, onto mouse skin. This model mimics several aspects of human psoriasis, including epidermal hyperplasia, immune cell infiltration, and altered cytokine production.
In Vitro Models
- Psoriasis 2D Monolayer Models
With extensive in vitro research experience, we offer psoriasis 2D monolayer model development services. This model involves culturing psoriatic keratinocytes in a single layer on culture plates. By utilizing psoriatic keratinocytes obtained from patient biopsies or cell lines, we evaluate the efficacy of compounds in inhibiting psoriasis-related pathways, reducing inflammation, and restoring normal keratinocyte function. - Psoriasis 3D Models
We also provide three-dimensional model development services. This model utilizes normal human epidermal keratinocytes and psoriatic fibroblasts obtained from psoriatic lesions. The cells are cultured on specially prepared cell culture inserts, forming a multilayered, highly differentiated tissue that closely resembles lesional psoriatic human tissues.
Our Advantages
Time-saving services with high efficiency
Fast and cost-efficient workflow
Timely project reporting and after-sales service
Professional and experienced multidisciplinary experts
Careful design and transparent operation process
Superior data quality and fast turnaround
Our company offers comprehensive preclinical research services. This includes evaluating the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of potential therapies. In addition to the services and models listed above, we also provide customized services and disease model development services to meet your specific needs. If you are interested in our services, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Reference
- Vičić, M., et al. "Current concepts of psoriasis immunopathogenesis." International journal of molecular sciences 22.21 (2021): 11574.