Sheryl Frank

Title: Sheryl Frank: Innovator in Antibiotic Development

Introduction

Sheryl Frank is a prominent inventor based in Durham, NC (US), known for her significant contributions to the field of antibiotic development. With a total of seven patents to her name, she has focused her research on identifying inhibitors that can combat fungal infections.

Latest Patents

Among her latest patents are innovative methods for the identification of inhibitors of asparagine synthase and threonine synthase as antibiotics. The research highlights that asparagine synthase is essential for fungal pathogenicity. Inhibiting its gene expression in fungi leads to a lack of successful infection or lesions. This discovery positions asparagine synthase as a viable target for antibiotic development, particularly antifungals. Similarly, her work on threonine synthase reveals its critical role in fungal pathogenicity, providing methods to identify compounds that inhibit its expression or activity.

Career Highlights

Sheryl has worked with notable companies such as Paradigm Genetics, Inc. and Icoria, Inc. Her experience in these organizations has contributed to her expertise in the field of biotechnology and antibiotic research.

Collaborations

Sheryl has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Jeffrey R. Shuster and Matthew M. Tanzer, further enhancing her research and innovation in antibiotic development.

Conclusion

Sheryl Frank's work in identifying inhibitors for asparagine and threonine synthases represents a significant advancement in the fight against fungal infections. Her contributions continue to pave the way for new antibiotic therapies.