India, Dec 18 : A team of Indian researchers has developed a groundbreaking peptide therapy aimed at treating fungal keratitis, a severe and sight threatening infection of the cornea. The study, conducted by scientists from Bose Institute, Kolkata, in collaboration with L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, introduces a 15-residue peptide named SA-XV, derived from the host-defense peptide S100A12.
Published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, SA-XV demonstrates potent antifungal activity while minimizing side effects associated with traditional treatments. Current therapy options, such as amphotericin B, are limited due to kidney toxicity and high haemolytic activity, highlighting the urgent need for safer alternatives.
In preclinical studies using mouse models, SA-XV reduced the severity of keratitis. “The antimicrobial peptides are non-toxic, serum-stable, and effective in inhibiting the growth of both planktonic and biofilm forms of Fusarium and Candida species,” said Professor Anirban Bhunia, leading the research at Bose Institute.
The peptide’s mechanism involves multiple stages: it binds to fungal cell walls and membranes, translocates into the cytoplasm, interferes with genomic DNA to halt the cell cycle, and finally induces apoptosis by targeting mitochondria. In addition to its antifungal properties, SA-XV has shown potential in promoting corneal wound healing.
Corneal infections, often termed a “slow epidemic” in India, affect a large population, especially those in agricultural communities and individuals with poor contact lens hygiene. The researchers believe SA-XV could offer a safer, more effective alternative to existing antifungal drugs, representing a significant breakthrough in ophthalmic therapy.