Abstract: Novel nutrient compositions for facilitating Mycobacterium tuberculosis growth and achieving activity of PZA at neutral pH (e.g., 6.8) are described. These compositions utilize conventionally unfavored growth nutrients, including certain amino acids, cholesterol, lactate, fatty acids, or ammonium salts that are associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis persistence in vivo. The present application describes methods for using such compositions to provide a reliable method for PZA susceptibility testing in which all tuberculosis drug susceptibility tests can be integrated into an efficient and economical system. The present application further describes screening and identification of PZA-like drugs in vitro for tuberculosis treatment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, compositions, assays and kits for identifying an antibacterial agent that decreases persister formation or survival, eliminates or reduces bacterial infection or disease and/or increases killing of a bacterial cell.