Identification of new fungal Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored wall transfer protein 1 (GWT1) inhibitors

Lead applicant

Dr Anjani Mosalikanti – IMU University

Co-applicants

Ayuba Sunday Buru – Kaduna State University, Nigeria

Kit-Kay Mak – IMU University

Dr Mallikarjuna Rao Pichika – IMU University

Geographical focus – LMICs, especially in Africa and Asia

Research Theme – Microbial Pathogenesis

Lay summary

Fungal infections, especially those caused by multidrug-resistant Candida species, pose a significant threat to human health due to increasing resistance to existing antifungals. This project aims to tackle this critical issue by targeting the Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored Wall Transfer Protein 1 (GWT1) within fungal cells. We will employ advanced computational drug discovery techniques to identify new compounds capable of inhibiting the GWT1 protein. These identified compounds will undergo rigorous testing for their activity in laboratory settings against priority Candida species identified by the World Health Organization (WHO). By discovering new GWT1 inhibitors, this project seeks to provide improved treatment options for fungal infections that are resistant to current antifungal therapies, potentially leading to more effective and life-saving treatments.