A chemical biology approach to identifying cyclic peptide antibiotics

University of Southampton will focus on applying the SICLOPPS technology to antibacterial and antifungal targets, with initial focus on E. coli. Merck and University of Southampton will agree upon cell type(s) and phenotypic read-out(s) of interest to support this strategy. University of Southampton will then apply SICLOPPS technology to pre-discussed cell-types and examine results for phenotype(s) of interest. Data interpretation, subsequent biological target identification, and peptide synthesis/optimization will be performed at University of Southampton. If appropriate, Merck will provide peptide synthesis support.
Merck will test resulting peptides identified by University of Southampton in appropriate cell-based assays or cell-free assays and provide appropriate chemical biology support as it relates to biological target deconvolution. Minimally, success is defined as identification of new peptidic chemical matter with modest in vitro antimicrobial activity against the bacteria of interest.