Kawasaki Disease (KD)
Kawasaki disease (KD), also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is associated with rash and conjunctivitis. Symptoms include fever, conjunctival congestion, and red lips. Specialized drug and therapy development services are essential to enhance and expedite Kawasaki disease research. Our company is well-equipped to address your drug and therapy development requirements in Kawasaki disease therapy.
Introduction to Kawasaki Disease
Kawasaki Disease, a condition primarily affecting children, is characterized by vasculitis of medium and small caliber blood vessels, particularly targeting the coronary arteries. It's the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. The incidence of kawasaki disease varies globally, with reports indicating a range of 8.4 to 239.6 per 100,000 among children under the age of five.
Fig.1 Factors implicated in pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease. (Aggarwal, R., et al., 2023)Pathogenesis of Kawasaki Disease
The pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease is complex, involving genetic susceptibility, infectious triggers, and an abnormal immune response. Genetic studies have identified various genes associated with the disease's susceptibility and the development of coronary artery lesions. Additionally, the condition is characterized by an imbalance between pro-inflammatory and regulatory T cells, contributing to vascular inflammation and the potential development of coronary artery abnormalities.
Fig. 2 Diagrammatic depiction of the imbalance of the inflammatory markers in Kawasaki Disease. (Agarwal, S. and Agrawal, D.K., 2017)Diagnosis Development of Kawasaki Disease
Recent advancements in diagnostic development for Kawasaki disease have focused on enhancing accuracy and efficiency. Incorporating novel biomarkers and imaging techniques, such as coronary artery ultrasound and genetic markers, facilitates earlier and more precise diagnosis, enabling timely intervention to prevent potential cardiac complications.
Therapy Development of Kawasaki Disease
Gene therapies aim to correct underlying genetic abnormalities or modulate immune responses involved in Kawasaki disease. CRISPR-Cas9 and other gene editing techniques hold potential for correcting genetic mutations associated with Kawasaki disease. Viral vectors or other delivery systems can be used to introduce therapeutic genes aimed at modulating immune responses or promoting tissue repair in Kawasaki disease.
Cell-based therapies hold promise in modulating immune responses and promoting tissue repair. Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) have shown immunomodulatory properties and may help reduce inflammation associated with Kawasaki disease. Regulatory T Cell (Treg) play a crucial role in immune regulation and have been investigated as a potential therapeutic avenue for controlling inflammation in Kawasaki disease.
Small molecule drugs have been explored for their potential in managing Kawasaki disease symptoms and mitigating inflammation. Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) remains the cornerstone of therapy for Kawasaki disease, reducing the risk of coronary artery abnormalities. Aspirin is often used in conjunction with IVIG to reduce fever and inflammation, and to prevent blood clots in affected arteries.
Monoclonal antibodies target specific molecules involved in the pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease, offering targeted therapy. TNF-α inhibitors have been studied for their potential in reducing inflammation and preventing coronary artery complications. IL-1 blockade has shown promise in controlling inflammation and improving outcomes in refractory cases of Kawasaki disease.
Our Services
Our company adopts a partnership-driven approach. We collaborate closely with clients to craft tailored, innovative Kawasaki disease therapy strategies and ensure robust support throughout the process.
Platforms of Kawasaki Disease Therapy Development
Animal Models of Kawasaki Disease
We have established expertise in developing and utilizing relevant animal models that closely mimic the disease characteristics and response to therapy. These models enable us to evaluate the safety and efficacy of potential therapies.
| Biologics Induced Models | ||
| They simulate infection processes to induce immune responses and inflammation similar to Kawasaki Disease. We provide diverse model choices customized to meet specific research needs related to Kawasaki disease. | ||
| Optional Models |
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| Genetically Engineered Models | ||
| Our expertise in genetic engineering techniques, such as CRISPR/Cas9 technology, allows us to generate accurate and reliable models that recapitulate the genetic alterations observed in human kawasaki disease. | ||
| Optional Models |
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| Optional Species | Mice, Rats, Non-human primates, Others | |
In addition to these models, our comprehensive services encompass other models that target specific signaling pathways and molecular targets.
If our services align with your goals, please contact us for more details.
References
- Aggarwal, R., et al., "Kawasaki disease and the environment: an enigmatic interplay." Front Immunol, (2023). 14: p. 1259094.
- Agarwal, S. and Agrawal, D.K., "Kawasaki disease: etiopathogenesis and novel treatment strategies." Expert Rev Clin Immunol, (2017). 13(3): p. 247-258.
- Singh, S., et al., "Diagnosis of Kawasaki disease." Int J Rheum Dis, (2018). 21(1): p. 36-44.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.