Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and Trinity University are working together to develop a new prodrug aimed at reducing tissue and organ damage linked to heart attacks, strokes, and traumatic injuries. These medical conditions can result in a lack of blood flow, known as ischemia, while subsequent treatment to restore circulation may cause further harm through what is called ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI).
The collaborative project will address both the initial deprivation of blood supply and the surge that follows when blockages are treated. Dr. Christina Cooley, associate professor in the Department of Chemistry at Trinity University, explained the challenge: "The moment oxygen comes flooding back into your cells during reperfusion, the surrounding tissue is inundated with reactive oxygen species, such as hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide. That oxidative stress can cause permanent cellular and tissue damage."
Dr. Cooley previously discovered AA 147, a compound that activates proteins to defend against reactive oxygen species and promote healthy protein responses.
In this project, SwRI will partner with Trinity University to develop a new borinic acid prodrug using precursors from Trinity's earlier research. Prodrugs remain inactive until they are converted within the body into an active therapeutic agent.
"Protein misfolding during cellular stress is a key driver of tissue damage in IRI, so the new prodrug will target that," said Dr. Christopher Dorsey, senior research scientist at SwRI. He added: "Once we figure out the synthesis route, we will train Trinity students to carry out our new technique. That's the exciting part of this collaboration, the opportunity to give back and pass along what we learn to a team of future scientists."
Researchers from both institutions plan to enhance how the prodrug releases its active components for maximum benefit in protecting patients at risk for IRI. After synthesis is complete, Dr. Cooley and her students will perform stability testing and other laboratory evaluations needed before moving toward live studies or clinical trials.
This effort is supported by funding from the first-ever Trinity-SwRI Research Collaboration Grant Program launched in 2025 to advance medical research through joint efforts between institutions. Both organizations contributed $250,000 this year for three biomedical research projects.
"Trinity University is thrilled to be collaborating with SwRI, and we look forward to exciting results from this collaboration," said Dr. David Ribble, dean of the D.R. Semmes School of Science.
