Science & Technology
RASP: A Novel Therapeutic Target
Moreover, RASP-protein adducts also bind to Scavenger Receptor A, initiating pro-inflammatory signaling and contributing to the formation of antibodies against the modified proteins, a mechanism that partly explains the presence of host-directed antibodies seen in autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Elevated levels of RASP are typically observed in ocular and systemic inflammatory diseases, which are the focus of our RASP modulator pipeline. Additionally, RASP are linked to metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders and, besides promoting inflammation, can lead to DNA damage, metabolic aggregate accumulation, and other pathological consequences.
Due to the inherent toxicity of RASP, most living organisms possess enzymes such as aldehyde reductases and aldehyde dehydrogenases that convert RASP into harmless compounds. Genetic mutations affecting these RASP-metabolizing enzymes can result in diseases such as Sjögren-Larsson Syndrome, where mutations in fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase lead to skin, neurological, and retinal issues.