Martín Conda Sheridan, PhD in medicinal chemistry (Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA) and associate professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA), visited the Center for Research in Bionanosciences (CIBION) and gave a seminar for the members of this institute.
The presentation revolved around Chlamydia trachomatis, the most common sexually transmitted pathogen in the world. “The consequences of chlamydia infections are many, including trachoma (blindness), infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and damage to the fallopian tubes,” explained Conda Sheridan.
Up to now, there is no vaccine or drug that is specific against the pathogen and the most common treatments are based on broad-spectrum antibiotics. “Some reports indicate that their effectiveness is diminishing”, warned the scientist.
During the seminar, Conda Sheridan presented the design and synthesis of compounds that affect the activity of cylindrical proteases. These enzymes deal with the breakdown of proteins that are essential for the growth of the bacteria. The results of their investigations show that the compounds alter the function of enzymes, exclusively causing the death of C. trachomatis.
