Novel cyclic glycopolymers for improved inhibition of bacterial AB5 toxins (2018-2020)
Abstract
Bacterial toxin proteins that can bind to carbohydrate receptors on cell surface via protein-carbohydrate interaction are involved in the pathogenesis of many life-threatening diseases. Inhibiting these protein-carbohydrate interactions with synthetic glycopolymers has the potential to prevent toxin proteins from exerting toxic effects. This project aims to develop glycopolymers with tailored structure and functionality as effective inhibitors for bacterial toxins. The outcome will include a systematic understanding of the structure-activity relationship of glycopolymers in their interaction with toxin proteins. The project will advance our knowledge in the design of macromolecular toxin inhibitors and help combat bacterial diseases.