Necrobiosis Lipoidica (NL)
Necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) is a rare granulomatous skin condition that may manifest in individuals with or without diabetes mellitus (DM). Our team comprises highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in addressing drug and therapy development concerns associated with NL, ensuring comprehensive support tailored to your needs.
Overview of Necrobiosis Lipoidica
Necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) is a chronic granulomatous disease that primarily affects the skin, especially on the shins, and is closely associated with diabetes, particularly insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. It's a rare condition, affecting more women than men, typically between the ages of 30 and 50, though it can also appear in younger individuals. The prevalence of NL among diabetic individuals ranges from 0.3% to 1.2%, with 11% to 87% of NL individuals concurrently diagnosed with diabetes.
Pathogenesis of Necrobiosis Lipoidica
Necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) has an etiopathogenesis that is not fully understood, though it is frequently associated with systemic conditions such as diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome. Key hypotheses suggest that insulin resistance and microangiopathies play a critical role. Pathological changes in NL include inflammation, degradation of collagen, and imbalances in immune regulation. The increased expression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT-1) on fibroblasts involved in collagen production, indicates an alteration in local tissue metabolism and repair mechanisms.
Fig. 1 Potential Mechanism of Action of JAK Inhibitors in NL. (Naumowicz, M., et al., 2024)Diagnosis Development of Necrobiosis Lipoidica
The diagnosis of NL primarily relies on presentation and histopathological features. Although research suggests an association between NL and systemic diseases such as diabetes, specific genetic mutations or biomarkers directly linked to the development of NL have not been identified.
Therapy Development of Necrobiosis Lipoidica
Small molecule drugs target specific molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of NL. One example is thalidomide, which has been used experimentally to treat NL due to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Another example is hydroxychloroquine, traditionally used in autoimmune disorders and has shown some efficacy in reducing inflammation associated with NL.
Gene therapy offers approach by potentially altering the underlying genetic drivers of disease. While gene therapies for NL are still theoretical, the identification of genes associated with similar pathologies could lead to gene therapy strategies. Gene editing tools like CRISPR/Cas9 could one day be used to modify or silence genes implicated in the inflammatory pathways of NL.
Research into the use of MSCs has been explored in other chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions and could be applicable to NL. MSCs can modulate immune responses and promote tissue regeneration, which might help in managing the chronic inflammation and skin damage seen in NL.
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) provide targeted therapy against specific proteins or pathways involved in NL. Infliximab and adalimumab, TNF-alpha inhibitors, have been used off-label for severe cases of NL that do not respond to standard therapies.
Our Services
Our company adopts a partnership-driven approach. We collaborate closely with clients to craft tailored, innovative necrobiosis lipoidica therapy strategies and ensure robust support throughout the process.
Platforms of Necrobiosis Lipoidica Therapy Development
Animal Models of Necrobiosis Lipoidica
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.
| Non-Genetically Engineering Models | ||
| We provide diverse model choices customized to meet specific research needs related to necrobiosis lipoidica. These models allow researchers to simulate and study the complex biological processes associated with necrobiosis lipoidica. | ||
| 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 necrobiosis lipoidica. | ||
| 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
- Naumowicz, M., et al., "A Breakthrough in the Treatment of Necrobiosis Lipoidica? Update on Treatment, Etiopathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Clinical Presentation." Int J Mol Sci, (2024). 25(6).
- Hwang, E., et al., "Molecularly Targeted Therapies for Inflammatory Cutaneous Granulomatous Disorders: A Review of the Evidence and Implications for Understanding Disease Pathogenesis." JID Innov, (2023). 3(5): p. 100220.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.