#United States #New York #Ibezapolstat #Acurx Pharmaceuticals #DNA pol IIIC

Acurx Pharmaceuticals Advances Antibiotic Development

Introduction

Acurx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., renowned for its innovative approach to tackling challenging bacterial infections, has recently made significant strides in its antibiotic research. At the prestigious Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology scientific conference, Acurx presented promising results stemming from its collaborations with Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC). This marks a pivotal moment for the company, especially in the face of rising antimicrobial resistance.

Collaboration with Leiden University Medical Center

The results presented are part of Acurx's ongoing partnership with LUMC, which has been bolstered by funding from Health Holland. This collaboration focuses on the mechanism of action of Acurx's DNA pol IIIC inhibitors, including their lead antibiotic candidate, Ibezapolstat. This innovative treatment specifically targets gram-positive bacteria, utilizing a unique approach that introduces an unexploited target in the fight against infections.

Presentation Highlights

At the conference, Dr. Mia Urem from LUMC delivered an elaborate poster and oral presentation detailing Acurx's DNA pol IIIC inhibitor platform. Titled "A Unique Inhibitor Conformation Selectively Targets the DNA Polymerase PolC of Gram-Positive Priority Pathogens," the presentation highlighted the structural biology of DNA pol IIIC when inhibited by Acurx's compounds. This insights into the inhibitors' binding mechanism could revolutionize how antibiotic treatments are developed moving forward.

Dr. Wiep Klaas Smits, an Associate Professor and Principal Investigator at LUMC, emphasized the findings' importance in shaping the future of antibiotic treatment against multi-drug resistant bacteria. He stated, “Our findings with respect to the structural biology of DNA pol IIIC in complex with inhibitors have significant implications for developing this novel class of antibiotics.”

Ibezapolstat: A New Hope

Ibezapolstat, Acurx's flagship compound, is ready to move into pivotal Phase 3 clinical trials specifically targeting Clostridioides difficile infections (CDI). The results from the previous Phase 2 trials show a remarkable 100% cure rate among patients treated with Ibezapolstat. This tremendous outcome positions Ibezapolstat as a potential game-changer in the treatment of CDI, especially crucial given that CDI continues to pose significant public health challenges.

Regulatory bodies have recognized this potential, as Ibezapolstat has received both QIDP (Qualified Infectious Disease Product) and Fast-Track designations from the FDA, underscoring Acurx's commitment to addressing urgent antibiotic needs.

Impact on Antimicrobial Resistance

As Acurx continues to develop its antibiotic candidates, the focus remains on confronting the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance. The data presented at the conference sheds light on the mechanisms that can guide the development of effective treatments, essential for combating the current pandemic of resistance.

Bob DeLuccia, Executive Chairman of Acurx, remarked on the significance of these findings, stating, “This research outcome provides a deeper understanding of the mechanism of action and selectivity of ibezapolstat in the gut. These data will guide the rational design of new compounds with enhanced inhibitory activity.”

Future Directions

The collaborative research conducted through the public-private partnership with LUMC and funded by Health Holland signals a promising future for Acurx’s antibiotic development program. This partnership not only enhances research within the life sciences sector but also emphasizes the vital role that academia and industry play in addressing health crises posed by resistant bacteria.

As Ibezapolstat approaches its pivotal trials, Acurx is simultaneously advancing its pipeline, focusing on other antibiotic candidates targeting resistant pathogens.

Conclusion

The presentation at the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology highlighted Acurx Pharmaceuticals' commitment to revolutionizing antibiotic therapy through innovative research. With promising results from Ibezapolstat, the company is on the brink of making a significant impact on public health by aiming to provide effective treatments for challenging bacterial infections, thus defending against the alarming rise of antimicrobial resistance.

To learn more about Acurx Pharmaceuticals and their ongoing research efforts, visit Acurx Pharmaceuticals.