SQ641

SQ641 is a preclinical-stage small molecule antibiotic being developed by Sequella, Inc. for the treatment of *Clostridioides difficile* infection (CDI) and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections. It is a semi-synthetic analogue of capuramycin, a naturally occurring nucleoside-based compound originally discovered by Daiichi-Sankyo. SQ641 functions by inhibiting translocase I (TL-1), an essential bacterial enzyme involved in the synthesis of peptidoglycan for the bacterial cell wall. Because TL-1 is unique to bacteria and absent in eukaryotic cells, it represents a highly specific target. Although SQ641 shows potent in vitro activity against various mycobacteria, including *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* and *Mycobacterium avium* complex, its development has focused on overcoming challenges related to low water solubility and poor oral bioavailability through the use of advanced delivery systems such as nanoemulsions and TPGS-based formulations.

Other names

capuramycin analogue