Biopeer

Researchers claim to prevent cystic fibrosis bug

Research published by the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western Ontario, in the Journal of Bacteriology, claims identification of molecules, which disturb the synthesis of 4-amino-4-deoxy-L-arabinose (Ara4N), thereby weakening the armor that protects the Burkholderia cenocepacia bacterium, the main cause of cystic fibrosis (CF), from the effects of antibiotics. The molecules by weakening the armor to B. cenocepacia would reduce the number of deaths in CF patients. “The possibility of a life-saving antibiotic to fight B. cenocepacia is tremendously encouraging to adults and children who have cystic fibrosis”, said Cathleen Morrison, CEO of the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Researchers at the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Medicine revealed that the enzyme, sphingomyelinase (SMase) disables a protein in lungs called CFTR, for cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, thereby clogging the respiratory tract with thick mucus. Analysis of the action of SMase in frog oocytes (a tool that allows researchers to assess the flow of ions across the membrane by measuring electrical current), with CFTR placed in their membrane, showed shutdown of the electrical current passing through not only the normal but also the CF-causing mutant CFTR. Further research suggests identification of inhibitors to SMase used along with antibiotic treatments and supportive measures.

Researchers at the University of North Carolina revealed that the rhythmic motion of the lungs during normal breathing clears the respiratory tract from bacteria and other toxins. Further study speaks that rhythmic motion of the lungs re-hydrates respiratory tract and speeds-up mucus clearance in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF). This research is similar to previous implications of treating respiratory disorders with alternative therapies like swimming and yoga. Nonetheless, researchers feel that this exercise can help CF patients to clear their respiratory tract largely.

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Clinical trials for new antibiotic on in India

Venus Remedies Ltd., a mid-size pharmaceutical company in India, is conducting advanced clinical trials for a new formulation that aims to provide total solution to the treatment of acute and sometimes fatal infections caused by multi resistant species. The new formulation, a fixed dose combination drug of latest generation Cephalosporin with an Amino-glycoside, has been developed by the company’s research and development wing.

Venus initiated multi-centered phase III clinical trials after receiving the go-ahead from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). According to Venus Remedies, the new formulation, which will be used to treat life-threatening infections caused by multi resistant P aeruginosa or Acinetobacter species, will be ready for commercial launch by December 2005.

Infections with the bacteria P aeruginosa are a major cause of ill-health and mortality in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis—a lethal disease affecting the respiratory system, digestive system, endocrine system, and reproductive system. Acinetobacter, meanwhile, causes hospital-acquired infections including skin and wound infections, pneumonia, meningitis and urinary tract infection. A recent spurt of Acinetobacter related infections and deaths in UK hospitals indicates that the bacteria has become resistant to common antibiotics.

Venus’ antibiotic formulation provides a broad coverage of bactericidal activity and potential synergic effects to minimize the development of resistance during treatment with a drug-resistant bacterium. If the Phase III clinical trials are successful, the remedy will be a boon for people suffering from cystic fibrosis, for which there is no defined cure till date, as this would help treat chronic bronchitis and other pulmonary infections.