Technology/Business Opportunity

Non-Confidential Description

University of California - Santa Cruz Campus

RATIONAL DESIGN FOR RNA-DIRECTED ANTIBIOTICS
BACKGROUND: A number of antibiotics target the ribosome, the site of protein synthesis in the bacterical cell. These include such important antibiotics as the aminoglycodsides, tetracylines, and erythromycin. RNA components of the ribosome are the important functional elements targeted by these antibiotics, serving to block protein synthesis and thus kill the bacterial cell when bound. A successful new antibiotic must specifically inhibit bacterial ribosomes while leaving human ribosomes unaffected, and overcome the potential problem of resistance emerging among bacterial strains.

DESCRIPTION: A researcher at the University of California has, for the first time, determined the detailed three-dimensional atomic structure of an antibiotic bound to its ribosomal RNA target. The UC researcher has also identified how resistant bacterial strains block the binding of the antibiotic. The antibiotic/RNA complex characterized by the UC researcher provides a rational basis via chemical modification of the antibiotic for improved antibiotic properties and reduced likelihood of bacterial resistance developing. Thus, the UC researcher proposes that superior RNA-directed antibiotics may be derived from this discovery. Given the periodic emergence of new resistant bacterial strains, this research has great potential significance in maintaining the viability of ribosomal antibiotics as reliable antibacterial agents.

INQUIRIES TO: F. Rod Stanley, Licensing Associate
Tel: (510) 748-6600
Fax: (510) 748-6639
Email: rod.stanley@ucop.edu

REFERENCE: UC Case 96-288