Methods for SrgT synthesis and suggested modifications for production of SrgT analogs and related peptides

Due to the increase in drug resistance among bacteria, continued progress in the development of new antibiotic treatments is needed. Available for licensing and commercial development is the small protein SrgT, its analogs and related peptides. SrgT is a 43 amino acid protein that effectively inhibits bacterial growth. This protein likely exerts its antibiotic action by inhibiting the metabolism of glucose in these microorganisms. The claimed invention includes methods for SrgT synthesis and suggested modifications for production of SrgT analogs and related peptides, which may remain effective against potential SrgT resistant bacteria. Thus, the current technology provides a novel approach to the treatment and prevention of bacterial infections. Application: Novel therapeutics and prophylactics for bacterial infections Development Status: Preclinical data is available at this time Selected Publication: CK Vanderpool, S Gottesman. Involvement of a novel transcriptional activator and small RNA in post- transcriptional regulation of the glucose phosphoenolpyruvate phosphotransferase system. Mol Microbiol. 2004 Nov; 54(4):1076- 1089.

U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/799,830 filed 11 May 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-166-2006/0-US-01) Inventors: Carin K. Vanderpool and Susan Gottesman (NCI)

Licensees sought: Available for non-exclusive and exclusive licensing.