Mika Aoyagi-Scharber

Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Mika Aoyagi-Scharber**

Introduction

Mika Aoyagi-Scharber is an accomplished inventor based in Novato, California, who has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology. With a total of 12 patents to her name, her work focuses primarily on therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of lysosomal storage diseases and other related disorders.

Latest Patents

Among her notable recent innovations are two significant patents. The first patent, titled "Targeted therapeutic lysosomal enzyme fusion proteins and uses thereof," relates to therapeutic fusion proteins designed to treat lysosomal storage diseases through innovative methods. These fusion proteins include components such as a lysosomal enzyme, a lysosomal targeting moiety (such as an IGF-II peptide), and a spacer peptide. This invention plays a vital role in addressing Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIB (Sanfilippo B Syndrome) by utilizing a targeted therapeutic fusion protein comprising alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase (Naglu).

Her second patent, titled "Variants of C-type natriuretic peptide," provides CNP variants and pharmaceutical compositions inclusive of these variants. These innovations are essential for treating diseases responsive to CNP, particularly bone-related disorders such as skeletal dysplasias (e.g., achondroplasia) and vascular smooth muscle disorders like restenosis and arteriosclerosis.

Career Highlights

Mika Aoyagi-Scharber is currently associated with BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., a leading global biotechnology company that focuses on innovative biopharmaceuticals. Her contributions in the field have not only advanced medical research but have also positively impacted patient care and treatment approaches for various diseases.

Collaborations

In her career, Mika has collaborated with notable colleagues including Daniel J. Wendt and Shinong Long. This collaboration underscores the importance of teamwork in the research and development processes of biopharmaceutical innovations.

Conclusion

Mika Aoyagi-Scharber stands out as a visionary inventor whose patents are paving the way for groundbreaking therapeutic solutions. Her work exemplifies the critical intersection of science and medicine, with a focus on improving the lives of individuals suffering from rare and complex diseases. As she continues to innovate, the impact of her inventions is poised to grow within the biomedical landscape.