gallium citrate

AR-501 is an inhaled formulation of gallium citrate developed as a non-antibiotic, broad-spectrum antimicrobial for the treatment of chronic lung infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Its mechanism of action involves acting as an iron analog to disrupt microbial iron-dependent metabolic pathways essential for bacterial growth and pathogenicity. By interfering with iron acquisition in microbes, AR-501 inhibits multiple iron-dependent synthetic and metabolic pathways required for bacterial survival and virulence. This mechanism is distinct from traditional antibiotics and has demonstrated activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Preclinical studies have shown efficacy in animal models of lung infection, while clinical trials have demonstrated safety and high drug concentrations in the lungs following inhalation therapy. The drug is being developed by Aridis Pharmaceuticals as a once-weekly self-administered inhaled therapy using a nebulizer[1][2][5][6][7].

Brand names

Panaecin

Other names

gallium citrateAR-501AR501AR 501