Creation of self-assembled peptide regulating inflammation and regeneration after ischemic brain stroke

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20H04528
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B)
• Allocation Type: Single-year Grants
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 90120:Biomaterials-related
• Research Institution: Tokyo Medical and Dental University
• Principal Investigator: Ajioka Itsuki 東京医科歯科大学, 統合研究機構, 准教授 (10348790)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: 超分子ペプチドゲル / サイトカイン / 脳梗塞

Outline of Final Research Achievements

This research focused on the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, reported to promote tissue repair following an ischemic stroke via reverse genetic studies. We evaluated the recovery effect of IL-10 on sensorimotor function impairment resulting from ischemic stroke. First, we developed a jigsaw-shaped self-assembling peptide (JigSAP), a sustained-release system superior to the conventional supramolecular peptide hydrogels. We then utilized it to establish the sustained release of IL-10. In the mouse stroke model, we found that IL-10 slow-release exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect. However, contrary to expectations, the results indicated an aggravation of sensorimotor function impairment post-stroke. Our research suggests the possibility that persistent inflammation post-stroke may promote tissue repair, adding complexity to the understanding of the role of IL-10 in post-stroke recovery.

Free Research Field

生体材料学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

JigSAPは低免疫原性の短いアミノ酸からなる両親媒性ペプチドであり、タンパク質を約1週間かけて放出することのできる新規超分子ペプチドゲルであり、まずは亜急性期脳梗塞の「細胞フリー再生治療医薬品」への展開を目指す。また、炎症抑制が脳梗塞後の回復を悪化させるという本研究のデータは、炎症制御による脳梗塞治療の難しさを示した一方で、標的細胞を同定する等の今後の研究の発展によって、新たな医薬品開発につながる可能性も考えられる。