High-Throughput Screening for Antifungal Drugs Targeting Zinc Homeostasis
Author Information
Author(s): Simm Claudia, Luan Chi-Hao, Weiss Eric, O'Halloran Thomas
Primary Institution: Northwestern University
Hypothesis
Can we identify new antifungal agents that target zinc homeostasis in fungal pathogens?
Conclusion
The study successfully developed a high-throughput screening method that identified several compounds interfering with zinc homeostasis in fungi.
Supporting Evidence
- Zinc is essential for the growth of many pathogenic fungi.
- The developed screening method is sensitive and reproducible.
- Several compounds were identified that disrupt zinc homeostasis in yeast.
Takeaway
Researchers created a special test to find new medicines that can stop fungi from getting the zinc they need to grow.
Methodology
The study involved creating a genetically modified yeast strain that expresses a fluorescent protein in response to zinc deficiency, which was then used to screen small-molecule libraries.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in selecting compounds based on their known effects on zinc homeostasis.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on a single yeast model and may not fully represent the complexity of zinc homeostasis in pathogenic fungi.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website