Melbourne-based integrated biopharmaceutical Immuron (ASX: IMC) has reached a new research collaboration agreement with Monash University.
The major objective of this research collaboration is to develop new therapeutic drug candidates which target antimicrobial resistant pathogens. This work will utilize the Immuron technology platform, and the extensive experience of the Biomedicine Discovery Institute research team lead by Professor Dena Lyras.
The research collaboration is effective and will continue whilst there are relevant research activities being performed under the research plan. No additional or new funding is required for the initial activities by Immuron for the strategic collaboration. The funding of Immuron’s research activities is allowed for in the company’s existing research budget.
After the results from this research agreement are known, the parties will negotiate in good faith (and without obligation) whether to jointly develop or commercialise the outcomes of these research collaborations on commercially reasonable terms.
The first project proposal will focus on the underlying mechanisms which bacteria utilise to share and transfer their DNA. A process which can rapidly alter the functional capacity and characteristics of a bacterium, resulting in the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) with the aim to develop broad spectrum therapeutic drug products.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to healthcare systems worldwide. AMR can lead to more severe and harder-to-treat infections in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and nursing homes. These infections often result in longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality rates. In the US, the estimated national cost to treat these infections exceeds $4.6 billion annually.
The second project proposal will specifically target Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) and as the name suggests VRE are bacteria that are resistant to the antibiotic vancomycin.
VRE are opportunistic nosocomial pathogens that have emerged as a major healthcare problem worldwide. The two most clinically significant enterococci, Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium, are associated with a range of nosocomial infections in elderly and immunosuppressed patients.
VRE complicates outcomes for at-risk patients, increasing their risk of developing subsequent infections and/or transmitting VRE to other patients. VRE colonisation has been associated with an increased risk of bacteremia, infections at other body sites and can also lead, in severe cases, to mortality.
The global market for antibiotics is projected to reach $57.0 billion by 2026 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0%. The rising prevalence of drug-resistant infections, including VRE, is expected to drive the demand for new and innovative treatments in this space.
