Technology
Skin health depends on a balanced immune response. Dysregulated or excessive inflammatory signaling can contribute to sensitive, reactive and inflammation-prone skin and is also a central feature of inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) is a naturally occurring immune-regulatory protein involved in controlling inflammatory responses and supporting regulatory immune-cell function. Sema3A has been associated with immune regulation across multiple inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including atopic dermatitis.
A proprietary modified form of Sema3A (T-Sema3A) was engineered to retain the immune-regulatory properties of the natural protein while selectively altering its receptor interactions. T-Sema3A retains signaling through the immune-regulatory CD72 pathway while avoiding neuropilin-1-mediated activity, which is associated with additional biological functions of native Sema3A. The modified protein promotes regulatory immune activity, including IL-10 expression, and is smaller than the native protein, potentially facilitating production and formulation.
These properties provide an opportunity to explore T-Sema3A as a novel bioactive for topical skin applications aimed at supporting immune balance and controlling excessive inflammatory responses, with potential relevance to sensitive and inflammation-prone skin.
Advantages
- Novel bioactive approach to modulation of skin immune responses
- Retains key immune-regulatory activity of natural Sema3A
- Selective receptor profile designed to avoid unwanted neuropilin-mediated effects
- Promotes regulatory immune pathways, including IL-10
- Smaller protein than native Sema3A, with potential production and formulation advantages
- Patent-protected engineered protein platform
Applications and Opportunities
- Topical products for sensitive and inflammation-prone skin
- Skin-soothing and anti-redness applications
- Support of healthy skin immune balance and homeostasis
- Dermocosmetic products for skin prone to inflammatory conditions
- Development of advanced protein-based cosmetic actives
- Potential integration into skin-care formulations and delivery systems
Business Development Contacts
