The German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) focuses on advancing research in various areas related to infectious diseases, including community-acquired infections, healthcare-associated infections, and emerging infections. One of the key technologies being developed at DZIF is the preclinical development of novel antibiotics, specifically amidochelocardin, which is derived from the natural product chelocardin. This antibiotic is being optimized to target multidrug-resistant bacteria, particularly those causing urinary tract infections. The research emphasizes the discovery of bioactive compounds that do not exhibit cross-resistance with existing antibiotics, utilizing innovative biosynthetic engineering techniques to enhance the compound's efficacy and stability.

In addition to antibiotic development, DZIF is also engaged in creating new diagnostic tools and therapies to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which is recognized as a significant global health challenge. The center collaborates with various institutions and industrial partners to facilitate the translation of research findings into clinical applications. This includes the establishment of clinical research cohorts, such as the Transplant Cohort and the Clinical Tuberculosis Centre, which aim to optimize the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of infections through coordinated research efforts and the integration of clinical data. Overall, DZIF's commitment to addressing infectious diseases through innovative research and collaboration positions it as a leader in the field of infection research.

Germany

Over 700 doctors and scientists from 35 establishments collaborate at the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), jointly developing new approaches to prevent, diagnose and treat infectious diseases.

This synergistic alliance of universities, hospitals and research institutions has established a globally unique infrastructure—aiming to effectively translate research results from bench to bedside, and vice versa: applying insights from clinical practice to research.

German Center for Infection Research

Company Details