Drug target identification, validation, characterisation and exploitation for treatment of Acanthamoeba (species) infections

Exp Parasitol. 2010 Sep;126(1):91-6. doi: 10.1016/j.exppara.2009.11.016. Epub 2009 Dec 24.

Abstract

New more efficacious antimicrobials as required for the treatment of Acanthamoeba infections as those currently available require arduous treatment regimes, are not always effective and are poorly active against the cystic stages. Herein, we review potential drug targets including tubulin, alternative oxidase, amino acid biosynthesis and myosin. In addition, we review the literature for current missing tools and resources for the identification, validation and development of new antimicrobials for this organism. Additional targets should come to light through a concerted genome sequencing effort.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acanthamoeba / drug effects*
  • Acanthamoeba / genetics
  • Amebiasis / drug therapy*
  • Animals
  • Antiprotozoal Agents / pharmacology*
  • Antiprotozoal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cellulose / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Humans
  • Mitochondrial Proteins
  • Ornithine Decarboxylase / drug effects
  • Oxidoreductases / drug effects
  • Plant Proteins

Substances

  • Antiprotozoal Agents
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins
  • Mitochondrial Proteins
  • Plant Proteins
  • Cellulose
  • Oxidoreductases
  • alternative oxidase
  • Ornithine Decarboxylase