UVU Research Uncovers Novel TB Treatment Strategy Targeting Bacterial Virulence

Event summary

  • A research team led by UVU Associate Professor Nathan Goldfarb has identified a new class of compounds targeting Hip1, a protein used by Mycobacterium tuberculosis to evade the immune system.
  • The findings, published in the European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry Reports, demonstrate significant reductions in bacterial survival within infected macrophages without harming host cells.
  • The research utilizes rational drug design and X-ray crystallography, resulting in two small molecules that inhibit Hip1 enzyme function.
  • The project is a collaborative effort involving UVU, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Adelaide, Utah State University, and California State University, Fresno.
  • The research lays the groundwork for preclinical trials, including optimization of compounds and combination testing with existing TB treatments.

The big picture

Tuberculosis remains a global health crisis, and new treatment strategies are urgently needed to combat drug-resistant strains. This research offers a novel approach by targeting a virulence factor rather than directly killing the bacteria, potentially mitigating resistance development. The collaboration between institutions highlights the growing trend of shared research resources in addressing complex global challenges, but the path to market remains lengthy and capital-intensive.

What we're watching

Clinical Translation
The success of preclinical trials will be critical to determining the viability of this new treatment strategy, and the timeline for potential human testing remains uncertain.
Resistance Risk
While the approach aims to reduce antibiotic resistance, the emergence of resistance mechanisms targeting the Hip1 protein itself could still pose a significant challenge.
Commercialization
The intellectual property rights and licensing strategy surrounding these compounds will be key to determining whether a pharmaceutical company will pursue commercial development.

Related topics

Drug Development Biotechnology