Description:
Abstract
USC researchers have recently developed a novel approach to treat pathogenic fungal infections by blocking DNA processing in the fungal cell. They have designed and synthesized a compound that blocks the function of a BET bromodomain protein in Candida albicans, Bdf1, which controls expression of some 50 fungal genes. Importantly, this compound inhibits Bdf1 without inhibiting human BET proteins, reducing the likelihood of off-target side-effects.
Benefit
- Antifungal
- High efficacy
- Low toxicity
Market Application
Invasive fungal infections are a major global health concern with around 2 million cases and over 800,000 deaths every year. Candida species are among the most significant human fungal pathogens with 30-40% mortality rates. Further complicating this problem is the emergence of drug-resistant fungal strains and the limited repertoire of available drugs. Thus there is an urgent need for new antifungal therapeutics.
Publications
Selective BET bromodomain inhibition as an antifungal therapeutic strategy, Nature Comm. (May 2017).
Other
- Tested in vivo
- Available for exclusive license