Drug development for cryptococcosis treatment: what can patents tell us?

Abstract

BACKGROUND Cryptococcosis is one of the most devastating fungal infections in humans. Despite the disease’s clinical importance, current therapy is based on limited antifungals that are either toxic, inefficient, unavailable worldwide, or that quickly lead to resistance.OBJECTIVES The goal of this study was to provide insight into the future of cryptococcosis treatment by describing the patent scenario in this field.METHODS We identified and analysed patent documents revealing compounds with anti-cryptococcal activity supported by experimental evidence.FINDINGS Patenting in this field has been historically low, with an overall tendency of increase since 2012. Most applications are single filings, suggesting that they do not encompass strategic inventions requiring broad protection. Research and development essentially took place in China and the United States, which also represent the main countries of protection. Both academic and corporate institutions contributed to patenting in this field. Universities are the leading actors, with the highest patent family counts.CONCLUSION The low number of patents in this field indicates that efforts to mitigate the unmet needs for cryptococcosis treatment remain insufficient. Without investment to drive research and innovation, patients will likely continue to face inadequate assistance. Given the current scenario characterised by poor funding and low interest for technological development, drug repurposing may be the best alternative for cryptococcosis treatment.

In vitro Antifungal Activity of a Novel Antimicrobial Peptide AMP-17 Against Planktonic Cells and Biofilms of Cryptococcus neoformans

“… 3 , 4 Furthermore, cryptococcal meningitis is the most common cause of meningitis in individuals with HIV in regions of the world with high rates of HIV infection. 5 , 6 It remains the second most prevalent cause of death in patients with AIDS. 6 , 7 The global burden of cryptococcosis is estimated to be 223,000 cases per year, with nearly 181,000 people dying each year.…”

“… 5 , 6 It remains the second most prevalent cause of death in patients with AIDS. 6 , 7 The global burden of cryptococcosis is estimated to be 223,000 cases per year, with nearly 181,000 people dying each year. 6 , 7 Hence, cryptococcosis, like other invasive fungal infections, is a challenging problem that necessitates focused research and the development of novel antifungal agents.…”

Different Pathways Mediate Amphotericin-Lactoferrin Drug Synergy in Cryptococcus and Saccharomyces

“…Although it is widely recognized that there is an urgent need for new antifungal therapies, development is hindered by high risk and cost combined with relatively limited revenue (Santos-Gandelman and Machado-Silva, 2019). An alternative approach that aims to get more life out of existing drugs is drug synergy, where an antifungal is combined with a second drug or agent.…”