Publish date: Oct. 29, 2025

DdhNTP Tools to Target Natural and Synthetic Nucleotide-Sensing Pathways 2023-126 

Applications

  • Immunomodulatory therapeutics: ddhNTPs can be used to modulate immune responses by targeting P2 receptors, which play a crucial role in various immune functions.
  • Nucleotidase inhibitors: These compositions can inhibit nucleotidases, enzymes that break down nucleotides, thereby influencing nucleotide signaling pathways.
  • Host-acting anti-infectives: ddhNTPs can be employed to enhance the host’s immune response against infections without directly targeting the pathogens, reducing the risk of resistance development.
  • Oncolytics: The invention can be used in cancer treatment by modulating nucleotide-sensing pathways to induce cancer cell death.
  • Anti-aging treatments: By influencing nucleotide signaling, ddhNTPs can be used to promote cellular health and longevity.
  • Tissue regeneration: These tools can aid in the regeneration of damaged tissues by modulating nucleotide-sensing pathways involved in cell growth and repair.
  • Green pesticides: ddhNTPs can act on plant P2K receptors to provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to pest control.

Advantages/Benefits

  • Targeted modulation: The ability to specifically target P2 receptors and nucleotide-sensing pathways allows for precise therapeutic interventions.
  • Broad applications: The versatility of ddhNTPs enables their use in a wide range of medical and agricultural fields.
  • Reduced resistance: Host-acting anti-infectives reduce the likelihood of pathogens developing resistance compared to traditional antibiotics.
  • Enhanced efficacy: By modulating key pathways, ddhNTPs can enhance the effectiveness of treatments for cancer, aging, and tissue regeneration.
  • Safety: The use of ddhNTPs offers a safer alternative to chemical pesticides.

Background

Recent research has revealed deoxy-dihydro-nucleoside triphosphates (ddhNTPs) as a novel class of molecules with potential immunomodulatory and antiviral therapeutic properties. Unlike standard dideoxy-nucleoside triphosphates (ddNTPs), which primarily function as chain terminators in DNA synthesis, ddhNTPs are naturally synthesized by the antiviral enzyme Viperin in response to viral infection. The therapeutic potential of ddhNTPs lies in their ability to accumulate in cells, selectively inhibit viral replication, and modulate immune responses. 

Technology Overview

The invention involves compositions and methods that deploy ddhNTPs (deoxy-dihydro-nucleoside triphosphates) as immunomodulatory therapeutics. These tools are designed to modulate P2 receptors, act as nucleotidase inhibitors, and have a wide range of applications including host-acting anti-infectives, oncolytics, anti-aging treatments, tissue regeneration, and green pesticides targeting plant P2K receptors. This invention represents a significant advancement in the field of nucleotide-sensing pathway modulation, offering innovative solutions for both medical and agricultural challenges.

Development Stage

Proof of concept

Investigator(s)

  • Jeffrey Cox
  • Michael Cronce
  • Jay Keasling

Status

Patent pending

Opportunities

Available for licensing or collaborative research