Treatment for Ichthyosiform Skin Diseases

Description:

A synthetic composition that contains the transglutaminase 1 (TGase I) enzyme and a lipid vesicle, which can be used to provide ameliorative therapy for inherited autosomal recessive ichthyoses (ARI). Icthyoses are rare inherited skin disorders that result in extensive scaling of the skin. Because this abnormality can affect heat and fluid transfer through the skin, individuals with this disease may have an increased risk for dehydration and skin infections. Each year, more than 16,000 babies are born with some form of ichthyosis. Ichthyosis affects people of all ages, races and gender. Currently, there is no cure for this disease and the only treatments available alleviate symptoms without affecting the disease itself. ARI are often caused by defects in lipid barrier function in the skin and are the result of genetic errors of either protein or lipid synthesis. One such disease, termed lamellar ichthyosis, is caused by genetic inactivation of the (TGase I) gene. The TGase I enzyme is essential for maintaining proper skin cornification, which protects skin cells against water loss and infection. Rather than simply treating the disease symptoms superficially, this technology provides a platform for treating the underlying cause of disease, namely the absence of TGase I function.