Fimbrion Therapeutics, Inc., under its joint research collaboration with GlaxoSmithKline, has identified an orally available, small molecule development candidate for the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The Discovery Partnership began its joint research efforts in July 2016. 
 
The newly identified clinical candidate is a mannose-containing small molecule that targets an adhesive protein in bacteria called FimH. This drug candidate represents a new strategy for treating bacterial infections by preventing the bacteria that cause UTIs from sticking to the walls of the bladder, allowing the body to naturally eliminate the infection. Since this mannose-containing compound does not kill bacteria, it potentially could treat and prevent UTIs without inducing antibiotic resistance.
 
“We are thrilled to have hit this candidate selection milestone with GSK,” said Dr. Scott Hultgren, co-founder and board member of Fimbrion, said. “Our collaboration demonstrates the true power of working together in the face of the imminent antibiotic resistance crisis—combining great science from academic research, the energy of an entrepreneurial start-up, and the expertise and resources of a world leading global healthcare company to deliver a new antimicrobial therapy.” Dr. Hultgren is the principal investigator for the collaboration with GSK, and he is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and National Academy of Medicine.
 
Gram-negative bacteria are the primary cause of UTIs. Options for treating UTIs and other Gram-negative bacterial infections have become increasingly limited due to the increase in antibiotic resistance.