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Chemistry and Biochemistry Labs
Savage Lab

Current Projects

Learn about what we are currently working on

Generation of high-affinity antibodies for capsular polysaccharides of pathogenic bacteria

In collaboration with top immunologists and chemists, a method of generating high affinity antibodies for glycans (oligosaccharides) has been developed. Typical immune responses to surface glycans do not result in generation of high-affinity antibodies; however, this method presents glycans in a unique manner allowing a more refined response to the antigen. The long-term goal of this research is the use of highly specific, therapeutic antibodies to treat infection.

Development of ceragenins as non-peptide mimetics of endogenous antimicrobial peptides

Ceragenins were developed to replace or augment antimicrobial activities of endogenous antimicrobial peptides that are part of the innate immune system. They are currently under study for reduction of bacterial burden in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients by Kinnear Pharmaceuticals, for topical treatment for epidermolysis bullosa patients, to treat chronic infections in foot and leg ulcers, and for multiple applications in animal care under the Purishield and Ceragyn brands.

Ceragenin coatings for medical devices.

By incorporating ceragenins into polymeric coatings on medical devices, antimicrobial protection is provided to these materials. The initial focus was on endotracheal tubes, and endotracheal tubes with a ceragenin-containing coating have been designated “breakthrough devices” by the FDA. N8 Medical is pursuing ceragenin coating applications.

Natural killer T cell adjuvants for immune stimulation

Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a subset of T cells, which respond to glycolipid presentation by CD1d. NKT cells provide a link between adaptive and innate immunity, and NKT cell adjuvants provide a unique means of stimulating potent immune responses. In collaboration with top immunologists, an adjuvant, designated ABX196, has been developed. Currently, ABX196 is in a Phase I/II clinical trial in the US for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in combination with nivolumab. Development of ABX196 is conducted by Abbivax.