DNA Polymerase IIIe, A New Antibiotic Target

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DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): In phase I we have identified a new class of active-site directed inhibitors of DMA polymerase HIE, a novel replicative enzyme in Gram+ bacteria. The compounds, 7-substituted-N2-(3,4-dichlorobenzyl)guanines "DCBGs", are potent enzyme inhibitors, and selected derivatives have potent and broad activity against clinically relevant Gram+ bacteria. We have identified the first active site directed inhibitors of the related DNA polymerase HIE from Gram- bacteria, i.e. E. coli. In addition, we have established a collaboration to crystallize and solve the structure of a complex between E. fecalis pol IIIE, DNA and one of our inhibitors. Based on the results of phase I, we will pursue designation of a lead antibiotic compound by in vivo testing in systemic and toplical bacterial infection models. We will use both QSAR analysis and structure-based drug design to discover new platform inhibitors of the pol HIE target. The following specific aims will be pursued: 1. scale-up synthesis of lead compound candidates and formulations for evaluation in animal models of bacterial infection; synthesis of 7-substituted analogs with enhanced pol HIE inhibitory and antibacterial activity in vitro. 2. solve the structure of E. fecalis pol IIIE:DNA:inhibitor complexes, and use the coordinates for understanding the basis of inhibition of the enzyme and for further rational, computer-based drug design (collaboration with Dr. Mark Jedrzejas, Children's Hospital of Oakland Research Institute). 3. continue assays of compounds for enzyme inhibition (pol IIIC, pol HIE), antibacterial activity, selectivity, cytotoxicity; incidence of resistance and mechanism(s) of resistance, by cloning and sequencing of targets (by subcontract to Microbiotix Inc.); test candidate drugs against clinical isolates of Gram+ and Gram- bacteria, bactericidal assays, combination studies with marketed antibiotics (by subcontract to UMass Medical School). 4. develop analytical methods for analysis of candidates in animal plasma, drug uptake and distribution by various routes in mice, acute toxicity, in vitro metabolism and stability studies. 5. evaluate candidate drugs for activity in animal models of Gram+ and Gram- infections (if warranted), emphasizing systemic antibiotic-resistant S. aureus, E. fecalis and S. pneumoniae in mice and topical S. aureus infections in guinea pigs.. Potent inhibition of Gram+ pol HIE and pol IIIC may lead to antibiotics with reduced incidence of resistance.