Targeting host deoxycytidine kinase mitigates Staphylococcus aureus abscess formation (Updated December 8, 2023).

A recent preprint abstract discusses the potential of host-directed therapy (HDT) as a strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance in pathogenic microorganisms. The study focuses on the use of a drug called (R)-DI-87, which is a clinical-stage anti-cancer drug and a potent inhibitor of mammalian deoxycytidine kinase (dCK). The researchers found that (R)-DI-87 can mitigate Staphylococcus aureus abscess formation in organ tissues during invasive bloodstream infections. By targeting host factors instead of the pathogen itself, this approach may help fight infectious diseases without the risk of resistance development. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]