ACX-375C

ACX-375C is a preclinical, novel small molecule antibiotic developed by Acurx Pharmaceuticals. It is designed as a Gram-positive selective spectrum (GPSS) bactericidal agent targeting multi-drug resistant and sensitive Gram-positive bacterial pathogens, including vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae (PRSP), and Bacillus anthracis (anthrax)[1][3][6]. The drug acts as an inhibitor of DNA polymerase III subunit C (pol IIIC), an enzyme essential for DNA replication in low G+C Gram-positive bacteria but absent in human cells and Gram-negative bacteria[1][4][6]. This mechanism offers high selectivity for pathogenic targets while minimizing effects on healthy cells. ACX-375C is structurally related to ibezapolstat and shares its mechanism of action[4]. The compound has demonstrated in vitro activity against various drug-resistant strains, including ciprofloxacin-resistant anthrax[5]. It is currently being developed primarily for intravenous administration with potential oral formulations under consideration[3].