Inhibition of keratinocyte proliferation by phospholipid-conjugates of a TLR7 ligand in a Myc-induced hyperplastic actinic keratosis model in the absence of systemic side effects

Abstract

Background. The Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) activator imiquimod (IMQ) is safe and effective in treating actinic keratosis; however, an intermittent treatment regimen is necessary because of excessive local reactions. Objectives. To evaluate in vitro potency, pharmacodynamics/ pharmacokinetics, toxicity and efficacy in vivo of the newly developed TLR7 ligand-phospholipid conjugate, TMX-202, in a gel formulation. Material and Methods. The effects of TMX-202 were assessed both in vitro on a murine macrophage cell line and in primary bone marrow-derived dendritic cells and in vivo on mice (C57BL/6-wild type, Myd88-/- and Tlr7-/-). Results. TMX-202 was more potent than IMQ in vitro using murine and human cells. In contrast, in vivo it showed less systemic pro-inflammatory activity and better safety than IMQ. Moreover, the TMX-202 gel formulation exhibited at least comparable efficacy to Aldara in a mouse model for skin proliferative diseases. Conclusion. TMX-202 is safe and efficacious without causing excessive adverse effects, suggesting that it may be an alternative to Aldara for the treatment of proliferative skin conditions.