Therapies in preclinical and in early clinical development for the treatment of urinary tract infections: from pathogens to therapies

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a prevalent health challenge characterized by the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in the urinary system. The continuous exploration of novel therapeutic interventions is imperative. Advances in research offer hope for revolutionizing the management of UTIs and improving the overall health outcomes for individuals affected by these infections.

Areas covered

This review aimed to provide an overview of existing treatments for UTIs, highlighting their strengths and limitations. Moreover, we explored and analyzed the latest therapeutic modalities under clinical development. Finally, the review offered a picture into the potential implications of these therapies on the future landscape of UTIs treatment, discussing possible advancements and challenges for further research.

Expert opinion

Comprehensions into the pathogenesis of UTIs have been gleaned from foundational basic science studies, laying the groundwork for the exploration of novel therapeutic interventions. The primary source of evidence originates predominantly from animal studies conducted on murine models. Nevertheless, the lack of clinical trials interferes the acquisition of robust evidence in humans. The challenges presented by the heterogeneity and virulence of uropathogens add an additional layer of complexity, posing an obstacle that scientists and clinicians are actively grappling with in their pursuit of effective solutions.

KEYWORDS:

• UTIs
• drug development
• UPEC
• pathogenesis
• antibiotics
• drug association

Article highlights

• Translating in vitro success to clinical applications: challenges and complexities involved;

• Understanding the limitations of in vitro studies and their relevance to real-world patient outcomes;

• Recognizing the numerous variables within the human body that can influence the effectiveness of UTI drugs;

• The trend of reintroducing established drugs instead of truly innovative agents in clinical trials;

• Challenges in patient selection and refining approaches;

• Analyzing the current landscape of UTI drug development and the lack of significant advancements.

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Reviewer disclosures

Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

This paper was not funded.