Celera Genomics has chosen Christchurch for phase one clinical tests of its Cathepsin S inhibitor, CRA-028129, and will dose about 70 volunteers with either CRA-028129 or a placebo. The subjects will not know which one they have been given,
Cathepsin S is an enzyme responsible for the breakdown of other natural proteins, but in some cases of autoimmune diseases it has been found to be poorly regulated by the body. Researchers propose that in those cases, controlling the enzyme could control psoriasis.
Celera said in a statement that it had the approval of New Zealand's director general of health for the tests, a committee of the Health Research Council, and a council ethics committee.
James Yee, head of development at Celera Genomics said the quality of clinical science and operations at the Christchurch trust meant that results from the study would be considered a valid basis to judge the suitability of CRA-028129 for further tests on people suffering from psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a genetic condition that causes the over-production of skin cells, leading to a thickening of the skin, resulting in raised red, scaly patches.
It is estimated to affect 1-3 per cent of the population worldwide, with two to three million of these patients suffering a moderate or severe form of the disease.
The most common form, plaque psoriasis, accounted for approximately 85 per cent of all cases, and caused raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells,.
Dr Yee said there was considerable evidence that the immune system was involved in the disease, and there was evidence that inhibiting the production of Cathepsin S by some skin cells might reduce the immune reaction.
The company had identified two genetic markers in humans which it would use to check the behaviour of the compound in the volunteers. It expected that the medication would also be useful against other autoimmune diseases. Other researchers have proposed targeting Cathepsin S in treatments for the incurable diseases rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
