The research group is proceeding with its studies on the resistance of the antibiotic colistin used for the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in cystic fibrosis (CF). Thanks to the previous FFC#15/2019 project, of which this is an extension, researchers have identified inhibitors of the antibiotic-resistance mechanism that are able to restore the activity of colistin. The goal of this project is to optimize these inhibitors and to identify “nano-vehicles” for their transport into the CF lung. Researchers will produce inhibitory compounds from primary sources and with a combined approach of virtual model analysis, synthesis and antimicrobial activity, aim to identify the compounds active against colistin resistance. Furthermore, nanoparticles for the delivery of colistin resistance inhibitors will be developed, specifically designed for their transport into the CF lung. New anti-colistin resistance molecules and appropriate transport systems could allow the use of colistin for the treatment of lung infections by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.

XIX Convention FFC Ricerca – download here a brief presentation of the project