Mitochondrial targeting NBS compounds for persistent infection treatment
Innovative NBS compounds, featuring a triphenylphosphonium motif, target persistent infections by accumulating in bacteria and human cells. This approach minimizes side effects, potentially treating chronic diseases like Lyme by disrupting bacterial ATP production and motility.
Overview
Persistent infections pose significant challenges in treating chronic diseases, such as Lyme disease. Our novel NBS series of compounds present a promising solution by leveraging the unique properties of the triphenylphosphonium (TPP) motif. This motif allows the compounds to accumulate within bacteria and human cells, enhancing their effectiveness against persistent infections while minimizing side effects. These compounds target the protein-synthesizing machinery of bacteria, providing an innovative therapeutic strategy to treat low levels of persistent infections in specific niches.
Technical specifications
- NBS compounds: Incorporate a TPP motif that accumulates in bacterial cells and human mitochondria.
- Mechanism of Action: At low doses, these compounds target persistent bacterial infections with minimal side effects. At higher doses, they can uncouple ATP production, reducing the motility of bacteria and preventing immune evasion.
- Applications: Primarily aimed at treating persistent infections in chronic diseases such as Lyme disease.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 3, having reached experimental proof of concept. Future research will focus on testing the effectiveness of these compounds against L-form variants of bacteria and assessing their interaction with human cell lines. The study is set to expand over a 12-month period to further validate these findings.
About University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is a comprehensive collegiate research university in the UK, pairing wide academic breadth with intensive research and innovation. Industry engages through the university-owned Begbroke Science Park, which co-locates laboratories with high-growth companies, and via proximity to the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus with national facilities such as Diamond Light Source. Clinical translation is enabled by a partnership with Oxford University Hospitals through an NIHR Biomedical Research Centre. Research is supported by UK Research and Innovation councils and the National Institute for Health and Care Research, alongside major charities. Technology transfer and corporate engagement are managed by Oxford University Innovation, which handles IP, licensing, consultancy and spinouts.
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