IIT Roorkee Scientists identify a small Molecule (IITR08367) to Combat Antibiotic Resistance in Urinary Tract Infections

Roorkee, June 14, 2024: In a ground-breaking development in the fight against antibiotic resistance, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) have discovered a remarkable molecule named IITR08367, offering hope in the battle against drug-resistant infections.
 
Antibiotic resistance is a pressing global concern, with predictions from the World Health Organization suggesting that by 2050, millions of lives could be lost annually to resistant infections. Among the challenging pathogens is Acinetobacter baumannii, notorious for its antibiotic resistance.
 
A. baumannii often renders the antibiotic fosfomycin ineffective by deploying robust defense mechanisms, including the production of biofilms and specific efflux pumps like AbaF, which expel antibiotics from bacterial cells. These strategies make treating infections caused by A. baumannii extremely difficult. However, the Prof. Pathania Group at IIT Roorkee has made a significant breakthrough by discovering IITR08367, a small molecule that acts as a potent inhibitor of the AbaF efflux pump. By inhibiting this pump, IITR08367 reduces the expulsion of fosfomycin from bacterial cells, making the antibiotic effective against A. baumannii.
 
This discovery not only revitalizes the efficacy of fosfomycin but also addresses the challenge of bacterial biofilm formation, which further contributes to antibiotic resistance. The molecule has been found to be safe and effective in preclinical studies, offering hope for more targeted and potent therapies against A. baumannii infections.
 
Published in the esteemed American Chemical Society Journal - ACS Infectious Diseases, this breakthrough has the potential to transform treatment options for urinary tract infections caused by multidrug-resistant A. baumannii. The cover feature of the journal underscores the significance of this discovery in the field of infectious diseases.
 
Prof. Ranjana Pathania, lead researcher on the project said, "This discovery represents a significant milestone in the fight against antibiotic resistance. By targeting bacterial defense mechanisms, we can enhance the effectiveness of existing antibiotics and pave the way for the development of new treatment strategies."
 
The societal impact of this breakthrough is profound. With the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections posing a threat to public health worldwide, innovative solutions like IITR08367 offer hope by preserving the effectiveness of existing antibiotics and addressing the urgent need for new therapeutic options.
 
Now the research team led by Prof. Pathania which includes Mahak Saini, Dr. Amit Gaurav and Arsalan Hussain is further developing TR08367 into a potential therapeutic agent for clinical trials. This critical phase will assess the molecule's safety, efficacy, and potential side effects in human patients, bringing us closer to combating antibiotic resistance on a global scale.
 
"The discovery of IITR08367 opens new horizons in the battle against antibiotic resistance," commented Prof. K.K. Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee. He further added, “This breakthrough underscores our commitment to cutting-edge research with real-world impact, addressing global health challenges and advancing human well-being."
 
As a premier institution renowned for its commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation, the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) has consistently demonstrated an ability to tackle complex global challenges and drive societal progress. Over the years, esteemed researchers at IIT Roorkee have been at the forefront of pioneering discoveries that have significantly contributed to scientific knowledge and societal advancement. The recent breakthrough in the discovery of IITR08367 stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and excellence of the research community at IIT Roorkee. This milestone underscores the pivotal role of IIT Roorkee in addressing critical issues such as antibiotic resistance and highlights the institution's ongoing commitment to advancing human health and well-being. With a legacy of impactful research and a vision for a brighter future, IIT Roorkee remains steadfast in its mission to foster innovation and drive positive change on a global scale.