CSIC scientists have found and patented new fluorescent compounds analogues of the antiparasite drug miltefosine, which allow rapid, simple and potentially in situ diagnosis of eye infections by fungi and amoeba.

This development could lead to straightforward diagnostic methods based on fluorescence microscopy. In addition, the novel compounds can also detect Leishmania parasites, as well as the miltefosine-resistant strain of this pathogen. This property would be of great utility to sort-out patient populations in which miltefosine therapies would not work, as well as to control and prevent the spread of infections by the parasite resistant strain. The researchers are now looking for interested commercial partners to develop a diagnostic kit.

 

Contact:

OTT- CSIC
José Manuel González Izquierdo
Telf. 91 568 15 40
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Links:

Instituto de Física Rocasolano

Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas

Instituto de Óptica