AQ-13 - an investigational antimalarial drug

Introduction: AQ-13 is a drug candidate in development for the treatment of Plasmodium falciparum infections. The chemical structure is similar to chloroquine, a 4-aminoquinoline, with a shorter diaminoalkane side chain. Chloroquine has been the standard of care for P.falciparum malaria for more than 40 years, but the spread of resistant parasites in all malaria endemic regions has led to abandonment of the drug. The outstanding attribute of AQ-13 is its retrieval of activity against chloroquine-resistant P.falciparum.

Areas covered: We review preclinical and clinical studies on AQ-13 and summarize findings on pharmacokinetic, safety, potency and efficacy.

Expert opinion: Based on its properties invivo, the most likely future indication of AQ-13 could be case management of uncomplicated falciparum malaria – as a partner drug in a combination therapy. Several 4-aminoquinolines combined with a partner drug are on the market and in development. The outstanding properties of AQ-13 should be identified to direct further clinical development.