Fungal infections pose a growing threat to global health, especially with the rise of drug-resistant strains and a limited number of effective treatments. Creative Biolabs' Antifungal Target Identification & Validation service offers a comprehensive solution for researchers and pharmaceutical companies seeking to develop the next generation of antifungal drugs. We leverage advanced technologies and a deep understanding of fungal biology to accelerate your drug discovery pipeline, from initial target screening to final validation. Request a quote
Overview
Our service is designed to identify and validate novel, fungus-specific drug targets that can overcome the challenges of existing antifungal therapies, such as toxicity and resistance. By focusing on essential fungal pathways that are absent or significantly different in human cells, we aim to discover targets for highly effective and safe compounds. We offer a full suite of services, from in silico predictions to in vitro and in vivo validation studies.
Detailed Scope of Services
We provide a modular and integrated suite of services to meet your specific research needs.
Workflow
Service Details
Target Identification Services
Target Validation Services
Samples
Deliverables
Turnaround Time
Target Identification Services
-
Bioinformatics and Computational Analysis: We use sophisticated in silico methods to mine genomic and proteomic data from various fungal pathogens. This includes subtractive genomics to identify genes present in fungi but absent in humans, and phylogenetic analysis to find fungal-specific pathways.
-
Gene Essentiality Screening: Using genetic tools like gene knockout, knockdown (siRNA), or CRISPR-Cas9, we systematically inactivate genes in fungal models to determine which ones are essential for survival.
-
Proteomics and Metabolomics: We analyze the protein and metabolite profiles of fungi to identify key enzymes and metabolic pathways that are upregulated or unique to the pathogen during infection.
Target Validation Services
-
Biochemical Assays: We develop and perform in vitro assays to confirm that a potential drug candidate can bind to and inhibit the function of the identified target protein. This includes enzyme activity assays and binding studies (IC50 determination).
-
Phenotypic Assays: We use a range of phenotypic assays to observe the effect of target modulation on fungal cells. This includes growth inhibition, morphology changes, and cell wall/membrane integrity tests.
-
Resistance Studies: We perform studies to see if fungi can develop resistance to the inhibition of a specific target, helping to predict the long-term viability of a new drug.
-
In Vivo Proof-of-Concept: For validated targets, we can conduct preliminary studies in animal models of infection to confirm the target's relevance and the potential efficacy of targeting it in vivo.
Sample Information Required
-
Fungal Strains: We work with a wide range of clinically relevant fungi, including Candida, Aspergillus, and Cryptococcus species.
-
Compound Libraries: If you have a proprietary compound library, we can screen it against our validated targets.
-
Genomic/Proteomic Data: We can analyze your existing data to identify potential targets.
Deliverables
-
A list of prioritized, validated antifungal targets.
-
Detailed reports from all in silico, in vitro, and in vivo experiments.
-
High-quality data for lead optimization and IND (Investigational New Drug) application.
-
Recommendations for next steps, including drug design and lead compound screening.
Turnaround Time
Turnaround time depends on the complexity and scope of the project. A standard target identification project, from initial consultation to a validated target list, typically takes 3-6 months. More complex projects involving in vivo studies will require a longer timeline.
Ready to discuss your project? Let us get in touch and explore how our consulting services can help you achieve your goals.
Necessity
The need for new antifungal drugs is critical. Current treatments often have significant side effects and are becoming less effective due to the emergence of resistant fungi like Candida auris. The primary challenge in antifungal drug development is the biological similarity between fungal and human cells, which makes it difficult to find targets that are selective for the pathogen without harming the host. Our service directly addresses this by systematically searching for and confirming targets that are unique to fungi.
Mechanism of Action
The goal of our service is to pinpoint molecular targets—typically proteins or enzymes—that are crucial for fungal survival, growth, or virulence. Once a potential target was identified, we used a multistep process to verify its significance. We confirm that inhibiting this target:
-
It is lethal to the fungus: The target is essential for the pathogen's life cycle.
-
Does not affect human cells: The target is absent or structurally distinct from its human counterpart, minimizing off-target toxicity.
-
It is accessible to drug molecules: The target's location within the fungus allows for effective drug binding.
Advantages of Partnering with Creative Biolabs
Expertise
Our team consists of experienced mycologists, biochemists, and computational biologists.
Customization
We offer flexible, customizable service packages to meet your specific needs.
Efficiency
Our integrated platform accelerates the drug discovery process, saving you time and resources.
High-Quality Data
Each project is tailored to your therapeutic goals, strain properties, and target market requirements—from early research to IND-enabling studies.
Target Customer Groups
-
Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies: Seeking to expand their antifungal drug pipeline.
-
Academic and Government Research Institutions: Requiring specialized services for their grant-funded research.
-
Venture Capitalists and Investors: Looking to de-risk investments in early-stage antifungal drug development projects.
Your next breakthrough is just a conversation away. Let's talk about your challenges and find a custom solution together.
FAQs
Why is it so hard to find new antifungal drugs?
Fungi are eukaryotes, just like humans. Their cellular machinery is very similar to ours, making it difficult to find compounds that kill the fungus without causing toxic side effects in the patient. Our service is designed to find and exploit the few key differences between fungal and human cells.
Can you work with drug-resistant strains?
Yes, we have an extensive biobank of clinical isolates, including multi-drug resistant strains, which allows us to identify and validate targets that are effective against current treatment challenges.
What is the cost of your services?
Pricing is project-specific and depends on the scope of work. We provide detailed quotes after an initial consultation to ensure our services align with your budget and goals.
