Finding new antifungal treatments targeting a specific enzyme
Discovery and optimization of antifungal acetyl CoA synthetase inhibitors
This study is looking for new antifungal medicines to help fight infections caused by fungi, using a special molecule called AR-12 that has shown promise in the lab.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10851748 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on discovering and optimizing inhibitors of acetyl CoA synthetase (ACS), an enzyme essential for the survival of various fungi but not required in humans. The team has identified a promising small molecule, AR-12, which has shown broad antifungal activity in laboratory settings. They will employ a multi-faceted approach that includes screening small molecules, studying the structure of ACS-inhibitor complexes, and conducting whole cell assays to evaluate the effectiveness of these inhibitors. This research aims to develop new antifungal drugs that could effectively combat fungal infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from serious fungal infections, particularly those caused by species like Candida or Fusarium.
Not a fit: Patients with bacterial infections or those who do not have fungal infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antifungal medications that are more effective against resistant fungal infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in fungi, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krysan, Damian J — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Krysan, Damian J
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.