Alexander N. Zelikin

Targeted drug conjugates to cure chronic bacterial infections

Applicant

Alexander N. Zelikin

Project drescription

Bacterial infections associated with implants are a major healthcare burden with no approved therapeutic treatment. Our approach to tackle this challenge is to develop targeted delivery of antimicrobial agents that seek bacteria and release a potent therapeutic agent at the bacterial cell surface. The targeting phenomenon minimizes side effects and toxicity to human cells, and at the same time enhances therapeutic efficacy of treatment. We aim to identify and optimize the lead candidate through in vivo therapeutic testing in the advanced animal models. By targeting infections with no current treatment, our product is poised to become the first-in-line treatment instead of being held in reserve, which is the case for other newly developed antibiotics. Our efforts address a clear unmet medical need and ensure commercial viability.

Institution

Aarhus University