Novel Anti-infective Compound that can address the growing problem of antibiotic resistance

Panaecin has broad bactericidal activity against Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria, including antibiotic resistant strains and highly resistant biofilms. Gallium’s broad anti-infective properties stem from its ability to compete and substitute for iron, and inhibit critical iron dependent enzymatic pathways in bacteria such as DNA synthesis, metabolic conversion, electron transport and oxidative stress defense. By effectively inhibiting all iron dependent pathways, gallium leads to death of the pathogen. Its inhibitory activity is unaffected by resistance to antibiotics and extends to bacteria growing in mature biofims as well as preventing biofilm formation. Panaecin is Aridis’ lead product for the treatment of life threatening bacterial lung infections, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) infections in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), non-CF bronchiectasis, COPD exacerbations, and ventilator associated pneumonia.

Panaecin also has strong antimicrobial activity against other common bacterial lung infections including Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and Burkholderia cepacia. Current treatments for CF and non-CF bronchiectasis are either palliative or ineffective in clearing the underlying chronic P. aeruginosa infection. Despite new and evolving antibiotic regimens, antibiotic resistance is a continuing concern, limiting their use and effectiveness. For example, the life expectancy for CF patients is limited to their 30s, despite repeated courses with daily doses of inhaled tobramycin.

The initial indications for Panaecin have a market potential in excess of $1B. These include P. aeruginosa lung infections, which affects ~80% of adult cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, non-CF bronchiectasis, COPD, and ventilator associated pneumonia. Secondary indications for Panaecin include bacterial infections in severe burn patients, wounds, and urinary tract and eye infections.