Abstract: In one aspect, compounds and methods are described herein for treating gram negative bacteria having resistance to cationic antimicrobial peptides. In some embodiments, for example, compounds of formula I are provided. In another aspect, a treatment for a gram negative bacterial infection comprises a cationic antimicrobial protein (CAP) in conjunction with a compound of formula I.

Abstract: A structurally distinct and potent series of synthetic small molecule activators of Vibrio cholerae quorum sensing have been chemically synthesized. The small molecule activators reduce virulence in V. cholerae. Acyl pyrrole molecules displayed strong potency and stability, particularly 1-(1H-pyrrol-3-yl)decan-1-one.

Abstract: A structurally distinct and potent series of synthetic small molecule activators of Vibrio cholerae quorum sensing have been chemically synthesized. The small molecule activators reduce virulence in V. cholerae. Acyl pyrrole molecules displayed strong potency and stability, particularly 1-(1H-pyrrol-3-yl)decan-1-one.

Abstract: A structurally distinct and potent series of synthetic small molecule activators of Vibrio cholerae quorum sensing have been chemically synthesized. The small molecule activators reduce virulence in V. cholerae. Acyl pyrrole molecules displayed strong potency and stability, particularly 1-(1H-pyrrol-3-yl)decan-1-one.

Abstract: Antivirulence strategies to combat Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are described. One strategy encompasses synthesis of a series of compounds that inhibit the production of pyocyanin, a redox-active virulence factor produced by this pathogen. A related strategy encompasses synthesis of compounds that inhibit the two P. aeruginosa quorum-sensing receptors, LasR and RhlR, inhibit production of pyocyanin, and inhibit biofilm formation.

Abstract: Using a whole-cell high-throughput screen, eleven molecules were identified that activate V. cholerae quorum sensing (QS). Eight molecules are receptor agonists and three molecules are antagonists of LuxO, the central NtrC-type response regulator that controls the global V. cholerae QS cascade. Pro-QS molecules are used for the development of novel anti-infectives.

Abstract: Antivirulence strategies to combat Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are described. One strategy encompasses synthesis of a series of compounds that inhibit the production of pyocyanin, a redox-active virulence factor produced by this pathogen. A related strategy encompasses synthesis of compounds that inhibit the two P. aeruginosa quorum-sensing receptors, LasR and RhlR, inhibit production of pyocyanin, and inhibit biofilm formation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of measuring biofilms and/or biofilm streamers, wherein the method comprises a system that has at least one channel and a biofilm streamer promotion element, a fluid capable of moving along the channel, wherein the fluid has a flow driven by a controlled pressure; and a measuring element capable of measuring a flow rate of the fluid through the channel. Additionally, method of screening for compound(s) that promote and/or inhibit biofilm and/or biofilm streamers using this system are also contemplated. Uses of the system, methods and identified compounds are contemplated for medical and/or industrial environments.

Abstract: Using a whole-cell high-throughput screen, eleven molecules were identified that activate V. cholerae quorum sensing (QS). Eight molecules are receptor agonists and three molecules are antagonists of LuxO, the central NtrC-type response regulator that controls the global V. cholerae QS cascade. Pro-QS molecules are used for the development of novel anti-infectives.

Abstract: Compounds that bind cellular IAPs (inhibitor of apoptosis proteins) are disclosed. The compounds are mimetics of the N-terminal tetrapeptide of IAP-binding proteins, such as Smac/DIABOLO, Hid, Grim and Reaper, which interact with a specific surface groove of IAP. Also disclosed are methods of using these compounds for therapeutic, diagnostic and assay purposes.

Abstract: Compounds that bind cellular IAPs (inhibitor of apoptosis proteins) are disclosed. The compounds are mimetics of the N-terminal tetrapeptide of IAP-binding proteins, such as Smac/DIABOLO, IIid, Grim and Reaper, which interact with a specific surface groove of IAP. Also disclosed are methods of using these compounds for therapeutic, diagnostic and assay purposes.

Abstract: This invention provides a practical synthesis route for 4,5-dihydroxypentane-2,3-dione (DPD), an unstable small molecule which is proposed to be the source of universal signaling agents for quorum sensing in bacteria. The synthesis route includes new intermediates and allows preparation of isotopically-labeled DPD and ent-DPD. The method provides sufficient quantities of DPD for study of spontaneous binding of borate to DPD, the signal for the marine bacteria V. harveyi.

Abstract: This invention relates to crystals comprising apo-LsrB and holo-LsrB. The structure of holo-LsrB identifies a tetrahydroxytetrahydrofuran derived from 4,5-dihydroxy-2,3-pentanedione (DPD) as the active autoinducer-2 (AI-2) molecule in Salmonella typhimurium. The X-ray crystallographic data can be used in a drug discovery method. Additionally the invention provides AI-2 analogs based on this discovery as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing those analogs.

Abstract: This invention relates to crystals comprising apo-LsrB and holo-LsrB. The structure of holo-LsrB identifies a tetrahydroxytetrahydrofuran derived from 4,5-dihydroxy-2,3-pentanedione (DPD) as the active autoinducer-2 (AI-2) molecule in Salmonella typhimurium. The X-ray crystallographic data can be used in a drug discovery method. Additionally the invention provides AI-2 analogs based on this discovery as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing those analogs.

Abstract: This invention provides a practical synthesis route for 4,5-dihydroxypentane-2,3-dione (DPD), an unstable small molecule which is proposed to be the source of universal signaling agents for quorum sensing in bacteria. The synthesis route includes new intermediates and allows preparation of isotopically-labeled DPD and ent-DPD. The method provides sufficient quantities of DPD for study of spontaneous binding of borate to DPD, the signal for the marine bacteria V.