Novel Anti-Fungal Drugs Against Infections Caused by Candida albicans

Categories: “Viruses, Chronic & Infectious Diseases“

Reference #: 2009-018

OTC Contact: Sharon E. Pula, Esq.,  (Directory Information | Send a Message)

Description

Georgetown University is seeking a partner in the development and commercialization of a new class of anti-fungal drugs. This new class of compounds has demonstrated high potency against Candida albicans. Candiasis is among the most common fungal infections in humans. Such infections can be especially devastating in immunocompromised individuals, and can even cause death in HIV infected patients. Given the commonality of candidiasis and the growing threat of drug resistance to the most common treatments, these compounds represent a potential new entry into a disease area that demands new treatment options.

Applications

These new compounds may be useful for the treatment of fungal infections caused by Candida albicans, including oral (e.g., oral thrush) and genital infections (e.g., vaginitis). Additionally, these compounds may be useful for treating candidiasis in immunocompromised patients, such as HIV and cancer sufferers, who are especially at risk for deadly opportunistic fungal infections.

Advantages

• This novel class of anti-fungal agents presents a new tool to fight strains resistant to common treatments, for example flucanazole. Such resistance constitutes a growing problem.
• New therapies are also in demand, because some anti-fungal treatments, such as amphotericin B have toxicity problems, especially when administered intravenously.

Stage of Development

The synthesis and screening of novel compounds has led to the development of a novel class of anti-fungals. In vitro screening has revealed a number of compounds that demonstrate potencies (MIC50) of <5μM and as low as 3μM against candida albicans.

Relevant Publications

No references or resources available.

Patent Status

Patents are currently pending covering the compositions and methods of use