Achillion is advancing ACH-702, an internally discovered compound, for the treatment of serious nosocomial bacterial infections. The company is currently assessing ACH-702 in IND-enabling preclinical studies and expects to begin clinical study of the compound during 2007.
Preclinical study data indicate that ACH-702 may provide the following benefits:
Broad-Spectrum Potency. ACH-702 has a novel target profile against bacterial DNA replication enzymes and potent, broad-spectrum activity. Achillion has established the potent activity of ACH-702 against multi-drug-resistant bacteria in a laboratory evaluation of recent clinical isolates obtained from infected patients, as well as in preclinical models of infection. The spectrum of activity includes inhibition of the DNA replication enzymes: gyrase, topoisomerase IV and primase.
Bactericidal Mechanism of Action. ACH-702 has demonstrated bactericidal activity against multi-drug-resistant MRSA. A number of the other drugs currently used to treat MRSA infections are bacteriostatic, meaning they are able to prevent the growth of new bacteria, but have a limited effect on the bacteria existing at the time of treatment.
Dosing. Data currently support potential administration of ACH-702 through both intravenous and oral formulations. An orally administered drug would be more convenient for patients and may decrease health care costs by enabling patients to transition their treatment from the hospital to a home setting.
Based on these characteristics, Achillion believes that ACH-702 may play an important role in the fight against drug-resistant bacteria.
