Perhaps the most striking difference between fungal cells and human cells is that fungal cells are encased in a wall that protects them from a hostile external environment. The cell wall plays a dynamic role in all aspects of fungal physiology. The fact that human cells lack a cell wall and the underlying biosynthetic and regulatory machinery to make the wall, suggests that drugs targeting cell-wall synthesis and assembly will be safe and specific antifungals. Current treatments include Amphotericin B and a variety of azoles that inhibit membrane-sterol biosynthesis. Unfortunately, Amphotericin B is toxic to humans and clinical resistance to azoles is increasing. These observations underscore the clear need for new antifungals. In this Phase I SBIR application, we propose to develop a novel screen that targets an essential step in fungal cell-wall assembly, namely, the extracellular anchorage of GPI-class mannoproteins. This will be accomplished in two specific aims: 1). Development of a screen to detect inhibitors of GPI-mannoprotein anchoring into the cell wall; 2). Screening of extracts for inhibitors using the assay developed in Aim One.

Proposed Commercial Applications

NOT AVAILABLE

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
1R43AI048337-01A2
Application #
6442431
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-SSS-K (10))
Program Officer
Duncan, Rory A
Project Start
2002-02-15
Project End
2003-02-14
Budget Start
2002-02-15
Budget End
2003-02-14
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2002
Total Cost
$100,000
Indirect Cost
Name
Mycologics, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
190042098
City
Aurora
State
CO
Country
United States
Zip Code
80045