Recent studies conducted in Singapore offer hope in addressing the global challenge of antibiotic resistance, a threat projected to claim 10 million lives annually by 2050. The Institute for Functional Intelligent Materials (I-FIM), under the leadership of Principal Investigator Professor Guillermo Bazan, has recently been featured in The Straits Times news for its groundbreaking research in combating antibiotic resistance.
In a landmark achievement, researchers at I-FIM have developed COE-PNH2, a molecule demonstrating remarkable efficacy against Mycobacterium abscessus, a prevalent mycobacterial species notorious for its resistance to conventional antibiotics. This compound, designed by I-FIM scientists, targets both replicating and dormant forms of the bacteria, offering a comprehensive solution to treatment challenges.
Professor Bazan emphasizes the unique structure of COE-PNH2, enabling it to breach the bacterial defenses that often render existing drugs ineffective. Notably, this molecule exhibits a low frequency of resistance, suggesting prolonged effectiveness compared to current treatments.
Collaborating with Associate Professor Kevin Pethe of Nanyang Technological University’s Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine), the research team aims to streamline treatment periods for non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections to two to three months, significantly shorter than the current 12 to 18 months.
Supported in part by the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine’s Kickstart Initiative, this groundbreaking study was published in Science Translational Medicine, marking a significant milestone in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
As I-FIM continues to pioneer innovative solutions, this breakthrough underscores the institute’s commitment to addressing global health challenges through interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
Read The Straits Times news article here.