74 Lynovex®, a novel mucolytic-antimicrobial agent for the treatment of cystic fibrosis

Background: The antimicrobial activity of garlic and other alliums are primarily based on allicin, an unstable thiosulphinate present in crushed garlic bulbs but absent in medicinal formulations. Objectives: To determine if stabilised allicin exhibits antimicrobial properties against multiresistant CF pathogens. Methods: We investigated 81 isolates comprising the Burkholderia cepacia complex, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and multiresistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Inhibitory activity (MIC and MBC) of stabilised allicin (NAM: New AllicinMAX TM) was determined using concentrations from 15−90mg/L. Bactericidal activity was measured by a kill curve in the presence of 3*MBC. Results: All bacterial isolates were inhibited by NAM with MIC values in the range 15−60mg/L. A kill curve using P. aeruginosa PAO1 at an initial density of 106 CFU/ml showed 100% killing within 60 min. To understand the potency of the chemically complex NAM, mass spectrometry was used to identify the active component(s) and their impact on bacterial protein targets. The potential for synergistic activity between NAM and conventional antibiotics has also been explored. Conclusion: Unlike other garlic extracts, NAM retains bactericidal properties against B. cepacia complex, S. maltophilia and multiresistant P. aeruginosa. Present therapy against these pathogens is difficult and NAM merits further investigation.