Product Development
COR-1
Autoimmune antibodies have been recognized to cause heart failure in many patients. The antibodies are directed against the beta-adrenergic receptor and mimic the effect of natural ligands, such as epinephrine (adrenaline). This leads to a chronical overstimulation of the receptor and consequently, to hypertrophy and reduced function of the heart.
COR-1 is a cyclic peptide which inhibits the effects of the stimulatory antibodies by scavenging and neutralising them. In an animal model, COR-1 prevented the generation of heart failure and also reversed existing heart failure.
COR-2
During atherosclerosis, monocytes invade the vessel wall and differentiate into foam cells which accumulate lipids and cholesterol. Existing therapies for the treatment of atherosclerosis intend to inhibit the uptake or the synthesis of cholesterol (e.g. by statins) which is, however, accompanied by negative secondary side effects.
COR-2 is a recombinant protein which specifically interferes with the generation of foam cells. It inhibits the cellular uptake of cholesterol by binding to LDL.
COR-2 will be developed to treat high risk atherosclerotic patient.