Pharmaco-modulation of epithelia for induction of antimicrobial peptide expression: a disruptive approach to fight antibiotic resistance

Introduction

The MaxImmun project aims at preventing and treating infections, and situations of conflict between the host and its microbiota, by developing a disruptive technology based on molecules that boost antimicrobial peptides (AMP) of the innate immune system.

Problem Statement

To face the problem of antibiotic resistance, this high-potential technology may be relevant both in situations of endemic infections in the developing world and infectious or inflammatory pathologies in industrialized countries.

Objectives

Our objective is to establish the proof-of-concept that among a series of hit molecules identified for their capacity to promote AMPs, a small subgroup may qualify to lead molecules that can then be pushed into the late phases of the R&D pipeline, with the perspective of a phase I clinical trial.

Methodology

To achieve this transition, our project will encompass the following areas:

1. Comprehension of microbial mechanisms leading to antibiotic resistance.
2. Comprehension of AMP regulations.
3. Identification of molecules and their optimization by medicinal chemistry.
4. Characterization and evaluation of their protective efficacy in pre-clinical validation models.

Expected Outcomes

Thus, we expect to develop innovative molecules as future antimicrobial drug candidates.