A number of bacterial pathogens recognize their human host environment by detecting certain host-specific molecules. Once detected, pathogenesis initiates, toxins are made, and disease begins.
Blocking this sensing mechanism and the resulting pathogenesis is an attractive strategy to counter disease caused by a number of important gram negative pathogens.
Such pathogens sense their human host environment by a receptor called "QseC" that is activated by human hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine.
Qsec inhibitors:
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block pathogenesis of certain Gram-negative bacteria
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should be active against multiple drug resistant strains
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affect a key pathogen receptor (unlikely to be affected by weaponization or deletion), and
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pre-screening for pathogen toxicity minimizes development of resistance
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