Boron-based drugs as antiprotozoals

Jacobs, R.T., Plattner, J.J. and Keenan, M. (2011) Boron-based drugs as antiprotozoals. Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases, 24 (6). pp. 586-592.

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Boron-based drugs represent a new class of molecules that have been found to exhibit attractive properties and activities against a number of protozoans causative of neglected tropical diseases. RECENT FINDINGS: This review highlights recent advances in discovery of potential treatments for human African trypanosomiasis, malaria and Chagas disease from a class of boron-containing drugs, the benzoxaboroles. SUMMARY: Research at several biotechnology companies, sponsored by product development partners (PDPs), has been successful in identifying a novel class of boron-based drugs, the benzoxaboroles, as potential treatments for neglected tropical diseases. This work was based, in part, on the earlier observation of antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of the benzoxaboroles. The unique properties of boron, namely its ability to reversibly interact with biochemical targets through an empty p-orbital, are important to the success of these new drug candidates. Physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of the boron-based compounds are consistent with features required for oral absorption, metabolic stability and low toxicity - all important for progression of this class to clinical trials.

Publication Type:	Journal Article
Publisher:	Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Ltd.
Copyright:	© 2011 Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
URI:	http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/6012

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