Selective SPNS2 inhibitor for autoimmune and inflammatory
This technology covers a new family of small-molecule drug compounds designed to block a protein called Spinster Homolog 2 (SPNS2), which acts as a transporter that helps immune-regulating cells move through the body. By inhibiting SPNS2, these compounds can modulate how the immune system behaves, which makes them relevant for treating conditions where immune activity needs to be dialed down or redirected. The patent covers the specific chemical structures of dozens of these inhibitor compounds plus their pharmaceutical formulations. Target disease areas indicated by the CPC codes include psoriasis, asthma, allergic conditions, diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases, and cancer.
What you could build
A first-in-class SPNS2 inhibitor drug, likely administered orally, targeting autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis or asthma; pharmaceutical companies developing novel immunology pipelines or biotech firms focused on sphingosine-1-phosphate biology would be the primary buyers or licensees.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based biotech startups, contract research organizations in the Northern Virginia/DC corridor, or pharmaceutical companies with immunology programs at institutions like Inova or VCU Health could be relevant partners or licensees.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Kevin R. Lynch, Yugesh Kharel, Webster L. Santos, Ashley Peralta, Russell G. Fritzemeier, Daniel Foster
- Granted
- March 31, 2026
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 12590083
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.