Development of SPR206, a Direct Acting Polymyxin Antibiotic with Reduced Nephrotoxicity, to Treat Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacterial Pathogens
Abstract
This proposal addresses the Military Infectious Diseases Research Program focus area that seeks to develop novel treatment options for infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Infections caused by bacteria that are resistant to one, or more than one, class of antibiotics are becoming increasingly more common worldwide, in both developed and developing countries alike. These infections can increase the length of a hospital stay, increase complications, increase disease prevalence, and result in higher death rates, all of which increase healthcare costs and decrease productivity. Polymyxins are a class of antibiotics that possess potent, broad-spectrum activity against an often difficult-to-treat type of bacteria called Gram-negative bacteria. In addition, Gram-negative bacteria that are resistant to many other antibiotic classes are still susceptible to polymyxins. Unfortunately, these drugs frequently cause kidney damage and for this reason are reserved as drugs of last resort. Spero has recently discovered SPR206, a direct-acting polymyxin with activity against MDR Gram-negative bacteria. Importantly, it has a significantly improved safety profile compared to marketed polymyxins, such as colistin, when tested in animal models. Spero has completed preclinical studies of SPR206 and is preparing for Phase 1 clinical trials to assess safety and tolerability in healthy humans. If successful, work proposed in this application would further establish the safety and tolerability of SPR206, inform dose selection for patients, and provide data needed to bring this drug to patients. As part of an overall clinical development plan, Spero plans to ultimately seek approval of SPR206 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Many bacterial infections have become increasingly difficult to treat due to antibiotic resistance, particularly in respiratory, burn, or wound infections, for patients in our military forces and at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities. We believe SPR206 can offer a safe therapeutic alternative to save lives and alleviate suffering in both military and civilian populations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 16, 2019
- Source ID
- W81XWH1910295
Entities
People
- Michael J Pucci
Organizations
- Spero Therapeutics (United States)
- United States Army