Peptides Binding to Parallel-Stranded G-Quadruplexes

Opportunity  

The global cancer therapeutics market size is projected to reach US$ 393.6 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 9.20% from US$ 164 billion in 2022. The rise in cancer prevalence and an ageing population are major factors driving the growth of the cancer therapeutics market, highlighting the need for novel and effective therapies. This invention addresses this need by introducing the Rhau18 peptide, which is designed to target parallel-stranded G-quadruplexes. 

Technology  

The Rhau18 peptide, comprising 18 amino acids, is designed to selectively bind to G-quadruplex topology which is characterised by parallel-stranded G-quadruplexes. This peptide holds significant potential as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment. Additionally, Rhau18 serves as a foundational module for the development of therapeutic compounds tailored to target parallel G-quadruplexes within living organisms, including those potentially formed in the promoters of oncogenes and the 5’-untranslated (UTR) region of oncogenes. 

Rhau18's ability to selectively bind to parallel-stranded G-quadruplexes offers a promising avenue for cancer therapy, providing a targeted approach to disrupt key molecular processes associated with oncogenesis. Its versatility as a molecular module allows for the creation of therapeutic compounds capable of precisely targeting G-quadruplex structures implicated in cancer development and progression. 

This innovation represents a significant advancement in cancer therapeutics, offering the potential for tailored treatments that specifically target the molecular signatures of cancer cells. By exploiting the unique properties of Rhau18, researchers can explore new avenues for precision medicine approaches aimed at improving outcomes for cancer patients. 

Figure 1: G-quadruplexes are unusual nucleic acid structures that have been implicated in cellular processes and found applications in nanotechnology. In this invention, we  have identified a minimal peptide sequence that binds with high affinity and specificity to parallel-stranded G-quadruplexes. 

Applications & Advantages  

Main application areas include the development of cancer therapeutics and specific detection of parallel-stranded G-quadruplexes. 

Advantages: 

• Offers a novel platform for cancer treatment through modulation of telomere maintenance, oncogene expression and genome instability.
• Enables the development of therapeutic compounds tailored to target specific G-quadruplex structures.
• Serves as a foundational module for creating tailored therapeutic compounds.