Liposomal Superoxide Dismutase
Polymun has encapsulated recombinant human Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) in liposomes using its proprietary technology. The liposomal formulation enables topical application of SOD as well as application by inhalation. As a scavenger of free oxygen radicals SOD has high potential for the treatment of pathologic conditions connected with oxidative stress free of any adverse effects.
Polymun has evaluated the transdermal application of Lipoxysanâ„¢ in patients suffering from Induratio Penis Plastica (IPP, also Peyronie′s disease) in phase II and III
clinical trials. The studies were conducted at three centers in Austria under the leadership of Claus Riedl, M.D. (
claus.riedl@thermenklinikum-baden.at) and resulted in significant and rapid decrease of pain and amelioration of the other symptoms of IPP. Lipoxysanâ„¢ treatment was efficacious, free of side effects and convenient thus leading to high patient satisfaction. Details to the studies can be found in our publications "
Pilot Study on Liposomal Recombinant Human Superoxide Dismutase for the Treatment of Peyronie′s Disease" and "Liposomal Recombinant Human Superoxide Dismutase for the Treatment of Peyronie′s Disease: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Prospective Clinical Study".
Lipoxysanâ„¢ is also tested for the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders and chronic skin ulcers. Beneficial effects of Lipoxysanâ„¢ therapy in wound healing were obtained in animal models of thermal lesions (Vorauer-Uhl et al. 2002).
Since increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was connected with various inflammatory skin disorders Lipoxysanâ„¢ is believed to have high therapeutic potential in dermatological conditions.
As oxidative stress induced by UV-light, cigarette smoke, air pollution, ozone, and chemicals is believed to trigger premature skin aging, there is a strong rationale to use liposomal SOD in cosmetic anti-aging products. All ingredients of the liposomal SOD are on the inventory of ingredients used in cosmetic products (Section I of the Annex to Commission Decision 96/335/EC). Therefore, with a lower concentration of SOD we are currently testing cosmetic application under the name of Dermoxysanâ„¢.
SOD - the Smart Antioxidant
Cu/Zn-Superoxide dismutase selectively degrades superoxide anions, the by-products of oxygen metabolism. Thereby, SOD prevents the chain reaction these superoxide anions trigger. Unlike conventionally used antioxidants as vitamin A, C or E, SOD is not depleted in the reaction due to its enzymatic nature but detoxifies superoxide anions constantly. Hence, even low doses of SOD have great effect. SOD is present in all aerobic living organisms and protects cells by preventing damage from free radicals. Due to the human sequence it is tolerated by the immune system causing no side effects. Recombinant human SOD (rhSOD) is produced in E. coli. You can
order rhSOD and matching antibodies as research reagents.
In October 2010, Polymun has concluded an exclusive agreement with
Apeiron Biologics AG for development and marketing of SOD.