# Sterilizing activity of spectinamide MBX-4888A when replacing linezolid in the Nix-TB regimen in the relapsing BALB/c mouse model of tuberculosis

## TL;DR

This study compares the effectiveness of a new drug, MBX-4888A, to linezolid in a tuberculosis treatment regimen using a mouse model.

## Contribution

The study introduces preclinical evidence for using spectinamide MBX-4888A as a safer alternative to linezolid in the Nix-TB regimen.

## Key findings

- MBX-4888A showed sterilizing activity in the relapsing BALB/c mouse model of tuberculosis.
- The spectinamide-based regimen was as effective as the linezolid-based Nix-TB regimen.
- MBX-4888A may reduce the adverse events associated with linezolid.

## Abstract

Spectinamides have garnered interest as experimental tuberculosis
therapeutics owing to their safety profile and efficacy as partner agents
when used in conjunction with established regimens in mice. The Nix-TB
regimen of bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid represents a short,
effective regimen recommended for treatment of pre-extensively
drug-resistant tuberculosis. However, linezolid administration is associated
with severe adverse events that limit its use. Here we present preclinical
data comparing Nix-TB regimens anchored by either linezolid or spectinamide
MBX-4888A.