Indian scientists have recently developed a peptide therapy that could revolutionize treatment for severe fungal eye infections nationwide. This therapy targets fungal keratitis, a sight-threatening corneal infection that remains a significant public health challenge in India. With innovative research, experts hope peptide therapy may offer safer and more effective treatment options compared to conventional antifungal drugs.
The study was conducted by the L V Prasad Eye Institute in Hyderabad, in collaboration with the Bose Institute in Kolkata, under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. Together, they developed a short, 15-amino-acid molecule called SA-XV, marking a breakthrough in peptide therapy for ophthalmic infections.
Fungal keratitis affects thousands of people each year, especially in rural agricultural regions where corneal injuries from plant material are common. Furthermore, unsafe contact lens practices have contributed to a rise in infections. Because the infection can cause irreversible blindness, researchers have been seeking more effective solutions, making peptide therapy an urgent scientific focus.
Current treatment often relies on amphotericin B, which is limited by serious side effects. It includes kidney damage and red blood cell toxicity. Consequently, ophthalmologists frequently face challenges in treating fungal eye infections safely. The introduction of peptide therapy could provide an alternative that overcomes these limitations.
Unlike traditional antifungal drugs, peptide therapy involves using naturally derived host-defense proteins. In this case, researchers isolated a 15-residue segment from the human protein S100A12, creating SA-XV, which remains stable in serum, exhibits strong antifungal activity, and is non-toxic to mammalian cells.
Laboratory studies revealed that peptide therapy using SA-XV inhibits the growth of fungi such as Fusarium and Candida, which commonly cause keratitis. Importantly, the therapy is also effective against biofilm-forming fungi, which are often more resistant to existing drugs. It highlights its potential as a powerful treatment.
The mechanism behind SA-XV’s success is multifaceted. First, it attaches to the fungal cell wall and membrane before entering the cell. Once inside, it disrupts critical structures like the nucleus and mitochondria, interfering with DNA and triggering cell death through apoptosis. This targeted mechanism enhances the effectiveness of peptide therapy.
In animal experiments using mice with fungal keratitis, peptide therapy not only reduced infection severity but also accelerated corneal healing. This dual action fighting infection while promoting tissue repair could make SA-XV a particularly valuable therapeutic option in ophthalmology.
Experts believe that peptide therapy could fill an important gap in antifungal treatments, especially in South Asia, where fungal keratitis is prevalent. If clinical trials confirm its safety and efficacy. The SA-XV may become a widely adopted alternative to existing drugs with severe side effects.
Although human trials have not yet begun, the research published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry marks a major milestone. Scientists are optimistic that peptide therapy will advance quickly due to SA-XV’s low toxicity and unique mechanism of action, which differs from conventional antifungal drugs.
Another advantage of peptide therapy is its potential to reduce antifungal resistance. By attacking multiple cellular targets, SA-XV makes it more difficult for fungi to develop resistance, addressing a growing concern in global healthcare.
Moreover, the accessibility and safety profile of peptide therapy could make it particularly suitable for low- and middle-income regions. It offers hope for patients who currently face limited options and a high risk of vision loss due to fungal keratitis.
In summary, peptide therapy represents a major scientific advancement in treating fungal eye infections. With its potent antifungal properties, ability to promote healing, and has a reduced risk of adverse effects. The SA-XV may transform corneal infection treatment practices in India and beyond. Continued research and clinical validation are crucial to bringing this innovative therapy to patients worldwide.
