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1620: Targeting Immune Cells as a Novel Treatment for Canine Atopic Dermatitis

Grant Status: Open

Grant Amount: $77,039

Dr. Daniel A. Gingerich, D.V.M., Imulan Bio Therapeutics, LLC

January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2013

Sponsor(s): American Sealyham Terrier Club, American Shih Tzu Club, Inc., English Setter Association of America, Inc., Estate of Christine Vachuska, French Bulldog Club of America, Great Pyrenees Club of America, National Beagle Club, Westie Foundation of America, Inc.

Breed(s): -All Dogs

Disease(s): Atopic Dermatitis

Research Program Area: Dermatology and Allergic Disease

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Abstract

Atopic dermatitis is a frustrating, chronically relapsing allergic skin disease in dogs. Treatment options are limited; many dogs require prolonged administration of steroids or other drugs. The only specific cure is skin testing and desensitization treatments over prolonged periods of time, managed by skilled veterinarians. It is now known that the underlying cause of atopic dermatitis in dogs is impaired immune responsiveness, specifically caused by a type of white blood cell call a T-cell. In laboratory mice, treatments aimed at rebalancing T-cell function have been shown to minimize clinical atopic dermatitis. In a previous CHF sponsored study, Dr. Gingerich showed that balancing of the T cell response resulted in long lasting (60-90 days) improvement in itchiness and other signs of atopy, consistent with restoration of normal immune responsiveness. The objective of this continuing research is to complete clinical trials to verify the efficacy and safety of T cell-focused treatment in dogs with atopic dermatitis. Laboratory tests will also be conducted on serum samples from these dogs to confirm the immunological effects of T cell-focused treatment and to develop new diagnostic tests for the disease.