Systems based
Method for the identification of Next Generation Anti-Infective
Compositions
Princeton Docket #
13-2870
Researchers
in the department of chemical and biological engineering, Princeton
University
have discovered that engaging futile cycles in microbes increases bacterial
death due to oxidative stress by orders of magnitude. Additionally they have
developed a computational framework to direct selection of futile cycles under
specified environmental conditions to produce antibacterial
effects.
Proof of concept in E.
coli has been established for several futile cycles in different
environments. Futile cycling has been validated and an increase in sensitivity
to H2O2 has been measured for strains that are actively
futile cycling when compared to strains carrying an inactive form of the
cycle-enabling enzyme.
Next Steps
Since oxidative stress is used by immune cells and antibiotics to
kill bacteria, the knowledge gained from this project could lead to the
development of new therapies to sensitize pathogens to immunity and antibiotics.
We envision that futile cycles can be engaged in vivo using engineered bacteriophage,
which offer the advantage of a genetically-programmable therapy. Additional
advantages may include slowed resistance development and ability to potentiate
both antibiotics and immunity.
Intellectual
Property and Status
Patent protection
is pending. Princeton is looking to identify appropriate commercial partners for
the further development and commercialization of this technology.
Inventors
Mark
Brynildsen
Mark is an
assistant professor in chemical and biological engineering. The main focus of his research is to use both
computational and experimental techniques in systems biology, synthetic biology,
and metabolic engineering to understand and combat infectious disease. His
research focuses on three key areas: host-pathogen interactions, bacterial
persistence, and biofilms.
Kristin Adolfsen
Kristin is a third
year graduate student in the Brynildsen Research
Group
Contacts:
Laurie
Tzodikov
Princeton
University Office of Technology Licensing ¿ (609) 258-7256¿
tzodikov@princeton.edu