Pipeline of our work
Lacto Therapeutics is working on the development of a therapeutic agent intended for the management of toxic reactions associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These conditions are frequently accompanied by enhanced lipid peroxidation, systemic oxidative stress, and parenchymatous jaundice with hyperbilirubinemia in the absence of mechanical obstruction.
The proposed therapeutic approach is based on the biological properties of lactoferrin and its role in antioxidant defense, detoxification, immune modulation, and antimicrobial protection.
Key properties of the drug
Preclinical studies indicate that the drug candidate demonstrates the following properties:
- inhibition of lipid peroxidation products formation in vitro and in vivo, reflecting pronounced antioxidant activity;
- prevention of nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic, and hematotoxic effects in experimental models of induced toxicosis, indicating a detoxifying effect;
- prolongation of the latent period of chemically induced carcinogenesis, along with a reduction in tumor incidence and growth rate, suggesting anticarcinogenic potential;
- suppression of bacterial growth in museum strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, demonstrating antibacterial activity;
- absence of general toxicity;
- lack of stimulatory effects on the growth of transplantable tumors of various histogenesis in animal models.
Therapeutic relevance
The drug is expected to demonstrate high efficacy as an antioxidant with additional detoxifying, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory properties, while maintaining good tolerability. These characteristics provide a rationale for its potential inclusion in intensive care protocols for conditions associated with endotoxemia and multiple organ failure syndrome.
Mechanistic rationale
Oxidative stress and endotoxemia play a central role in the development of purulent-septic complications during the postoperative period. These conditions are characterized by:
- excessive activation of lipid peroxidation;
- depletion of antioxidant defense mechanisms;
- suppression of the lymphocytic component of the immune system;
- progression of multiple organ failure in the context of endogenous intoxication.
Importantly, these pathological processes often persist even after adequate surgical sanitation of the purulent focus.
How lactoferrin-based therapy may work
The inclusion of a highly active antioxidant agent based on lactoferrin in intensive care regimens may contribute to the restoration of the body’s antioxidant defense system. This effect is associated with:
- reduction of excessive oxidative processes;
- regression of secondary multiple organ failure, particularly hepatic dysfunction;
- attenuation of purulent-inflammatory reactions and endotoxemia;
- normalization of immune system parameters, including lymphocytic activity.
Safety and tolerability
The available data suggest that this therapeutic approach is safe and well tolerated, including in critically ill patients, without evidence of intolerance or significant complications.