Use of Novel Derivatives of Artemisinin to Inhibit Toxoplasma Gondii
Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is a medically important infection that is distributed worldwide. Current treatments for the prevention and treatment of toxoplasmosis are of limited efficacy and have undesirable side-effects. According to recent studies, the natural product artemisinin and its derivatives are excellent alternatives and are very effective at inhibiting toxoplasma replication in vitro. Although artemisinin has additional therapeutic qualities such as rapid action and non-toxicity, it is limited in absorption, bioavailability, and possesses a short half-life. In light of this, researchers at JHU designed and synthesized four novel, non-acetyl derivatives of artemisinin that demonstrate increased anti-toxoplasma activity and decreased cytotoxicity compared to traditional treatments but possess a longer duration of action than natural artemisinin Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) Toxoplasmosis is a common disease across the world. Current research suggests that anywhere between 10-90% of the world�s population will have had the infection by the time they reach adulthood depending on eating habits, hygiene, and climate. Infections are more prevalent in immunocompromised individuals, such as those suffering with AIDS. The development of effective compounds of low toxicity will benefit the general infected population and especially those with compromised immune systems where serious complications of the infection are more likely to develop. Toxoplasma gondii has also been associated with a large number of cases of schizophrenia and if the association can be proven, measures for the prevention and treatment of this disease can then be designed.Inventor(s): Brando, Lorraine
Type of Offer: Licensing
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