Overview

• The molecule disrupts chlamydia's fatty acid synthesis, a process essential for the bacterium's growth and replication within human cells.
• This discovery addresses the limitations of current broad-spectrum antibiotics, which disrupt the microbiome and face rising resistance challenges.
• Chlamydia trachomatis, responsible for 130 million infections annually, often causes mild or asymptomatic cases that can lead to infertility, chronic pain, and increased cancer risks if untreated.
• The research team screened large chemical libraries, identifying over 60 candidates before isolating a highly selective and potent molecule.
• Extensive preclinical studies, including toxicity and pharmacokinetics testing, are planned to advance the molecule toward eventual clinical trials.