The findings, presented at the Leiden Early Drug Discovery & Development scientific conference, detail the molecular mechanics of DNA pol IIIC inhibitors. By utilizing cryo-electron microscopy, the team identified a distinctive non-planar conformation that allows the drug to bind effectively to a conserved site across more than 220 Gram-positive species. This structural conservation suggests that the treatment could be effective against a broad array of pathogens, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE).

For Acurx, these results validate the drug's mechanism of action as it prepares for international Phase 3 clinical trials targeting Clostridioides difficile. Executive Chairman Bob DeLuccia noted that the research clarifies how the compound maintains selectivity while sparing the gut microbiota, a key factor in reducing infection recurrence. The company is currently leveraging these insights to guide the design of future candidates, including an oral treatment for skin infections and a prophylactic program for inhalation anthrax.