TECHNOLOGY

Zonula's novel small molecules targeting cell adhesion represent a new approach to treating fibrosis dependent diseases.

Cell adhesion, the process by which cells stick to one another, is a fundamental biological property. Zonula's small molecules bind to proteins, known as cadherins (biological glues) and prevent cell adhesion (see below diagram). These molecules can modulate fibroblast adhesion and survival in bone joints.

Fibroblasts degrade cartilage. Inflammation causes these cells to proliferate in the bone joints and erode the cartilage causing rheumatoid arthritis. Zonula's small molecule cadherin inhibitors stop the fibroblasts from proliferating and decrease their ability to degrade cartilage.