Poly(trisulfide) potentiators for enhanced fungicide efficacy
Flinders University has developed a sulfur-rich poly(trisulfide) polymer that acts as a potentiator to enhance fungicide effectiveness against fungi like C. albicans. This polymer is easily modifiable, scalable, and exhibits synergistic properties with commercial fungicides.
Overview
The research team at Flinders University has discovered a novel sulfur-rich polymer, poly(trisulfide), that acts as a potentiator, enhancing the efficacy of commercial fungicides. This polymer shows promise in inhibiting the growth of fungi such as C. albicans without killing them, positioning it as an excellent candidate for co-administration with existing antifungal agents. The polymer's water-soluble version has demonstrated effectiveness comparable to known fungicides like ketoconazole and nystatin, making it a valuable tool in the fight against fungal infections.
Technical specifications
- Polymer Composition: Linear poly(trisulfide) with three sulfur atoms linking each monomer.
- Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC): Less than 8 micrograms/mL against C. albicans.
- Properties: Easily modifiable to adjust water solubility, hydrophilicity, lipophilicity, and active sulfur content.
- Synthesis: Simple two-step process with scalability demonstrated by production of decagram quantities.
Future Validation Plans:
- Testing against multiple fungal pathogens including Candida auris and Aspergillus fumigatus.
- Evaluating synergistic effects with checkerboard assays.
- Assessing human cell toxicity and mode of action.
- Formulation tuning for optimized activity using a polymer library.
Technology readiness level
The poly(trisulfide) technology is currently at TRL 3, indicating that it is in the experimental proof of concept stage. Ongoing studies aim to validate its efficacy and optimize formulations for potential commercial application.
About Flinders University
Flinders University is a comprehensive public research university based in Adelaide with a growing footprint across South Australia. Its Tonsley campus sits inside the Tonsley Innovation District, placing researchers alongside industry, government, and startups in facilities designed for co-development and demonstration. The health and medical precinct integrates the university with Flinders Medical Centre and a new Health & Medical Research Building, enabling rapid clinical collaboration and translation. Research is supported by competitive funding from the Australian Research Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, and the Medical Research Future Fund. A dedicated research partnerships and commercialisation team and an active entrepreneurship institute help industry engage, manage IP, and launch new ventures.
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