Star Polymers As Novel Antimicrobial And Immunomodulatory Agents
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$945,908.00
Summary
The rise in antibiotic resistance in bacteria is considered as a major public health threat that is not being met by antibiotic research. This project will modify a novel star polymer that we have shown kills antibiotic resistant bacteria but does not induce resistance. The project will make and characterise new versions of the star polymer to produce antimicrobial materials that target and kill the multi-drug resistant bacteria that are a major cause of bacterial infections and death.
This project aims to develop a novel class of drugs with the potential to overcome the stability problems previously associated with protein-based drugs. We will develop novel molecules for the treatment of cancer and cardiovascular disease. This project has the potential to lead to major economic and social benefits to Australia via royalty returns from drug sales and reduced costs for health care for patients with these diseases.