Lyme borreliosis (LB) is the most common vector-borne zoonotic disease in the northern hemisphere and it is increasing due to climate change. It is caused by Borrelia bacteria spread by ticks. The project lead by Structural Bioinformatics Laboratory at the A°bo Akademi University, focuses on developing novel selective and narrow-spectrum antibiotics against LB. Borrelia burgdorferi BmpD can selectively deliver antibiotics to Borrelia, where they halt protein synthesis and kill Borrelia. Our project intertwines drug screening, 3D structural analyses, and functional testing in Borrelia and mice to identify BmpD-specific antibiotics. The designed selective antibiotics reduce the risk of resistance and harm for beneficial bacteria, gut microbiome, or immune system, thus enhancing overall human health and well-being. Bait boxes laden with the designed antibiotic reduce Borrelia prevalence of ticks and eradicate Borrelia from nature, which makes outdoor activities more pleasant and safer.

2026

2029