Researchers at the University of Liverpool are investigating the efficacy of compounds used to treat snake venom and bee stings as an alternative to antibiotics in treating eye infections. Professor Stephen Kaye and his team are studying alternative treatments for microbial keratitis. The research has found that the bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, produces toxins that are similar to those present in snake venom or bee stings. The anti-toxin treatments, anti-phopholipases, are delivered directly to the eye.
Previous interventions have included antibiotics, but have shown limited efficacy in cases of microbial keratitis. Additionally, antibiotic resistance is another cause for concern that has led Kaye to test other alternative treatments.
Professor Kaye said: "We are grateful that Fight for Sight has agreed to support this project. We intend to investigate several promising anti-phospholipase agents, optimize their chemistry to increase penetration and minimize toxicity, as well as to design new agents. If successful these agents will be delivered topically to the eye in conjunction with other antimicrobials in cases of microbial keratitis."