Research lead
A synthetic DNA binding compound discovered at Warwick University has been shown to be very effective at binding to bacterial DNA, killing all the bacteria within two minutes.
The DNA binding properties of the compound were uncovered by Mike Hannon (now at Birmingham University) and Alison Rodger. The compound, (Fe2L3)4+, is an iron triple helicate that fits within the major groove of DNA.
On binding, the compound coils the DNA so that it is no longer available to bind to anything else. Initially the researchers focused on using this property to target cancer, but they also recognised that it could be used against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Further research at Warwick confirmed the bactericidal properties. Rodger, who is professor of Biophysical Chemistry, believes the speed of action means the compound is potentially of value as a novel antibiotic against drug resistant bacteria.
The researchers are now attempting to understand how and why the compound can cross the bacteria cell wall and membranes. They also plan to screen for related compounds that have the same mechanism of action.
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