Capstone Therapeutics Corp. (formerly OrthoLogic Corp.) is a biotechnology company committed to developing a pipeline of novel therapeutic peptides aimed at helping patients with under-served medical conditions. The Company is focused on development and commercialization of Apo E mimetic peptide AEM-28-14 (through its investment in LipimetiX Development LLC – see www.lipimetiX.com)
Apo E Mimetic Peptide Molecule – AEM-28 and its analogs
Apolipoprotein E is a 299 amino acid protein that plays an important role in lipoprotein metabolism. AEM-28 is a 28 amino acid mimetic of Apo E and AEM-28-14 (an analog of AEM-28) is a 28 amino acid mimetic of Apo E (with an aminohexanoic acid group and a phospholipid) and both contain a domain that anchors into a lipoprotein surface while also providing the Apo E receptor binding domain, which allows clearance through the heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) receptors (Syndecan-1) in the liver. AEM-28-14 as an Apo E mimetic, has the potential to enhance the clearance of triglyceride- and cholesterol-rich lipoproteins from the plasma, completing the reverse cholesterol transport pathway, and thereby reducing cardiovascular risk. This is an important mechanism of action for AEM-28-14. For patients that lack LDL receptors (Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia – HoFH), or have acute pancreatitis, AEM-28-14 may provide a therapeutic solution. In addition, the artery wall protective effects seen in multiple animal models may be highly beneficial to these patients and to others with atherosclerosis. Our joint venture has an Exclusive License Agreement with the University of Alabama at Birmingham Research Foundation for AEM-28 and certain of its analogs.