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Inhibition of Pathogenic Biofilms on Teeth and ImplantsReference Number TO 02-00226
The Challenge
Streptococcus mutans is a clinically important contributor to pathogenic biofilms generating caries, endocarditis or other infectious diseases. These biofilms are growing preferably under anaerobic conditions like on surfaces of implants within the human or animal body. As in clinical infections involving biofilm formation an increased resistance against antibiotics is generally found, the demand for alternative therapeutic strategies is high.
The Technology The invention relates to carolacton as a pharmaceutical composition. Carolacton is a natural small molecule with a unique chemical structure produced by myxobacteria of the genus Sorangium. Carolacton is very effective in the reduction or prevention of bacterial biofilms which are generated on natural or synthetic surfaces, e.g. on the surface of teeth in the form of dental plaque, as well as on implant surfaces, e.g. on the surface of stents, artificial joints, heartvalves or vessels. Carolacton has no relevant antibiotic activity, but still has the ability to inhibit the formation of biofilms at very low concentrations. This could be exemplified in biofilms containing Streptococcus mutans, a clinically important contributor to pathogenic biofilms.
In-licensing of IP for the development of a drug for the treatment or prevention of pathogenic biofilms within the human or animal body. Cooperation for further development is also possible.
Exemplified medical effectiveness in biofilms containing Streptococcus mutans.
A European Patent Application filed in 2007 is pending (EP07115738.2). An international application will follow. |
Kontakt: Dr. Sabina Heim T: +49 (0)0531 6181 2090 |
