Project Abstract

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogens poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of companion animals, such as dogs and cats. These infections can be challenging to treat, leading to prolonged illnesses, increased veterinary costs, and potential zoonotic transmission to human caretakers. This project aims to evaluate the efficacy of novel antimicrobial compounds against MDR bacterial pathogens commonly encountered in companion animal settings. The project will focus on the evaluation of two promising antimicrobial compounds, compound X and compound Y, which have demonstrated potent activity against a range of bacterial species in preliminary in vitro studies. The study will be conducted in three phases, beginning with an in vitro assessment of the antimicrobial activity of these compounds against a panel of MDR bacterial isolates obtained from companion animals, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli, and carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. In the second phase, the project will evaluate the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the selected antimicrobial compounds in an animal model system using healthy companion animals. This will provide crucial information on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of the compounds, as well as their ability to achieve therapeutic concentrations at the site of infection. The final phase of the project will involve a randomized, controlled clinical trial to assess the efficacy of the novel antimicrobial compounds in the treatment of MDR bacterial infections in companion animals. The study will enroll dogs and cats with confirmed MDR bacterial infections and compare the clinical outcomes, including resolution of clinical signs, reduction in bacterial loads, and safety profile, between the novel antimicrobial compounds and standard-of-care treatments. The successful completion of this project will provide valuable insights into the potential of these novel antimicrobial compounds as effective treatment options for MDR bacterial infections in companion animals. The findings from this study may have broader implications for the development of new antimicrobial therapies, as the compounds evaluated may exhibit similar efficacy against MDR pathogens in human medicine. Furthermore, the project will contribute to the understanding of the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of MDR bacterial infections in companion animal populations. This knowledge can inform the development of evidence-based infection control strategies and antimicrobial stewardship programs in veterinary settings, ultimately improving the health and welfare of companion animals and mitigating the risk of zoonotic transmission. In conclusion, this project represents a critical step in addressing the pressing challenge of MDR bacterial infections in companion animals. By evaluating the efficacy of novel antimicrobial compounds, the project has the potential to provide new therapeutic options and contribute to the overall understanding of antimicrobial resistance in the veterinary field.

Project Overview