Abstract
As antimicrobial resistance is
a growing global threat, it is imperative to develop alternative therapeutic approaches. Quorum sensing (QS) is a type
of bacterial cell-to-cell signaling pathway mediated through the production,
release, and detection of the small signaling molecules called autoinducers
(AIs). Such communication allows bacterial control of crucial function
including virulence factors and biofilm formation. If achieved, the inhibition of QS would
reduce bacterial pathogenicity, thus providing disease prevention and treatment.
The most
common QS signaling molecule used by Gram-negative bacteria are acylhomoserine
lactones (AHLs). The development of non-native acylhomoserine lactone (AHL)
ligands has emerged as a promising new strategy to inhibit QS in Gram-negative
bacteria. FIU inventors have developed new optically pure γ-lactams and cyclic azahemiacetals,
bearing alkylthiomethyl substituents with different carbon chain lengths that
are capable of inhibiting bacterial QS pathways. These compounds have shown inhibition of the
pathogenicity of Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas
aeruginosa, an important human opportunistic pathogen
affecting immunocompromised individuals, cancer patients, burn victims, cystic
fibrosis patients, and patients with impaired lung function.
Benefit
• Effective against drug resistant bacterial strains • Attenuate infection without the creation of resistant bacteria or adverse effects • Can be used in combination with antibiotics
Market Application
Treatment and prevention of infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria in human, animals and plantsSurface treatment of surgical instruments, medical and healthcare devices, food processing, water treatment, and agriculture equipment, boat hull, and power generating machinery and equipment
Brochure
