The Need

Leishmaniasis is a protozoal parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies. The disease affects millions of people worldwide. Sandflies carrying the promastigote form of the parasite bite a human host, attracting macrophages to the site of the wound. Promastigotes are then phagocytized by the macrophages, transform into amastigotes and multiply within the macrophage and various species-specific tissues.

Current treatments for leishmaniasis include sodium stibogluconate, amphotericin B, pentamidine isethionate, miltefosine, ketoconazole, itraconazole, and fluconazole. However, these therapies result in significant side effects. Thus, new therapies that can replace or reduce the dose of conventional therapies are desirable.

The Technology

Dr. Ainslie and her colleagues at The Ohio State University were able to demonstrate the use of AR-12 to treat visceral leishmania infection. This small molecule was able to clear the amastigotes from the macrophage in vitro and in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow in vivo.

Commercial Applications

• Treatment of leishmaniasis

Benefits/Advantages

• Host targeted drug that can limit development of resistance