For most infectious diseases, chemotherapeutics are still required for disease control as vaccines are generally lacking. In addition, drug resistance has become a critical issue, which endorses the need for continuous drug research. The pharmaceutical industry has largely withdrawn from drug R&D for infectious diseases, particularly tropical diseases.
LMPH is actively involved in a multidisciplinary consortium for the identification of new synthetic and natural lead compounds, with a particular focus on tropical protozoa (leishmaniasis, malaria, sleeping sickness and Chagas disease), bacteria (Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria) and fungi (yeasts, dermatophytes and molds). Validated in vitro test systems and drug screening technologies are available against the stated pathogens. In addition, expertise for evaluation in animal models is available, thereby allowing definition of ‘proof of concept’.