Methods for the identification of inhibitors of Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase as antibiotics

摘要

The present inventors have discovered that Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase is essential for normal fungal pathogenicity. Specifically, the inhibition of Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase gene expression in fungi results in reduced pathogenicity (i.e. smaller, non-viable lesions). Thus, Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase can be used as a target for the identification of antibiotics, preferably antifungals. Accordingly, the present invention provides methods for the identification of compounds that inhibit Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase expression or activity. The methods of the invention are useful for the identification of antibiotics, preferably antifungals.