BioVersys Secures Non-Dilutive Funding from CF AMR Syndicate Collaborative Discovery Programme
Wednesday, June 05, 2024
BioVersys AG, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has announced the reception of a non-dilutive award from the CF AMR Syndicate totaling up to £500,000. The award, facilitated through the LifeArc funded Collaborative Discovery Programme (CDP), aims to bolster the development of novel small molecules tailored to combat non-tubercular mycobacteria lung disease (NTM-LD) prevalent in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF).
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat, rendering existing therapeutics increasingly ineffective. This challenge is particularly pronounced in addressing NTM-LD, where resistance often emerges during prolonged treatments spanning 12-24 months, resulting in cure rates as low as 30-50%. People with structural airway diseases like CF are especially susceptible to NTM-LD.
CF affects over 162,000 individuals worldwide, despite advancements in drug treatments, there persists an urgent need for novel therapies. The accumulation of thick mucus in the lungs of CF patients predisposes them to difficult-to-clear infections, leading to a progressive decline in lung function. Treatment failures due to resistance development are common and can have devastating consequences.
BioVersys' NTM program, based on its proprietary Ansamycin Chemistry platform, is focused on developing a potent broad-spectrum anti-NTM ansamycin suitable for oral or inhalation therapy. It's imperative that the candidate molecule selected for development exhibits minimal potential for drug-drug interactions, especially given NTM-LD patients often require multiple drug therapies.
BioVersys, expressed delight at securing funding from CF AMR Syndicate and emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving successful research endeavors. Collaborating with esteemed partners such as CF AMR Syndicate enhances BioVersys' network and enriches its understanding, paving the way for impactful advancements in NTM-LD treatment.
Catherine Kettleborough, LifeArc’s Chronic Respiratory Infection Translational Challenge Lead, highlighted the significance of the Collaborative Discovery Programme in accelerating scientific innovation for CF and bronchiectasis. Welcoming BioVersys as one of the supported projects underscores the program's commitment to addressing the urgent needs of the CF community.
Cystic Fibrosis Trust, stressed the vulnerability of CF patients to antimicrobial resistance and the urgent requirement for new therapies. The commencement of the program, developed in consultation with the CF community, marks a significant step forward.
Dr. Beverley Isherwood, Strategy Leader, Infectious Diseases at Medicines Discovery Catapult, underscored the unique collaborative approach of the CF AMR Syndicate in accelerating the translation of CF antimicrobials to the clinic, aiming to deliver promising antimicrobials for those in need.
This initiative aims to address the urgent need for effective treatments for NTM-LD, particularly in vulnerable populations such as individuals with CF, contributing to improved outcomes and quality of life for patients.
Source: globenewswire.com
