Viruses Are the Better Antibiotic
Development of Novel Therapeutics Boosted With Millions of Euros
sbtlneet, pixabay.com, CC0
Effectiveness instead of resistance
“Phages are able to destroy bacteria effectively by using a mechanism of action regardless of a resistance to antibiotics”, says Prof. Dr. Wippermann, Head of Surgery at a large German hospital as well as Director Medical and Co-Founder of PhagoMed. “Studies and experimental treatments performed by us and colleagues have shown that phages are able to succeed where antibiotics have previously failed.” PhagoMed was incorporated in November 2017 in Vienna to further develop this novel therapeutic approach and bring phage drugs to market that comply with the strict regulations for pharmaceuticals.
The studies conducted by Prof. Wippermann as well as the other co-founders are the basis for PhagoMed’s project development. Currently, the company is evaluating three potential drug candidates. One specific field of focus is the treatment of infected artificial joints, such as hip prostheses. These infections are difficult to treat since they are often caused by multiresistant bacteria. In addition, the bacteria typically form a so-called biofilm on the surface of the prosthesis, which further inhibits the effectiveness of antibiotics. In these types of complex infections phages are especially promising as a treatment alternative since they can degrade the bacterial biofilms as well as kill the multiresistant bacteria. The treatment of infected prostheses with phages will be further evaluated by PhagoMed in an animal trial starting later this year.
Successful financing
To fund its activities, the company has now received more than €4 million in grants and private investments. The cornerstone of this three-part financing is an FFG funded research project with a total volume of €3.5 million until 2021. For the first research year the FFG has approved a funding rate of 70%. In addition, private investors contributed €750.000 in seed financing. The final part of the financing round is an €800.000 aws-Seedfinancing.
Other news from the department business & finance
Most read news
More news from our other portals
Something is happening in the life science industry ...
This is what true pioneering spirit looks like: Plenty of innovative start-ups are bringing fresh ideas, lifeblood and entrepreneurial spirit to change tomorrow's world for the better. Immerse yourself in the world of these young companies and take the opportunity to get in touch with the founders.