Antifungal Antibody

About

About Opportunity: Fungal infections are a major health problem with 300 million people affected worldwide each year leading to 2 million deaths. In the developed world, seriously ill and immune-compromised patients are at greatest risk of lethal infection and current antifungal drugs are restricted to 3 broad classes, polyenes, azoles and echinocandins with continued problems of resistance and toxicity. The global market for antifungals is predicted to reach $12.2 billion by 2016 so there is clear incentive to develop novel effective therapies. A particular problem is caused by the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans that exists as a harmless commensal in 50% of the population, however it is estimated to be responsible for up to 35% of deaths in intensive care units in hospitals. Aberdeen researchers have developed a novel antibody that demonstrates clear activity against C. albicans in vitro in an immune system-independent manner. This is a key point when most patients are not going to be able to mount effective immune responses. The exact details are the subject of a patent application but further information can be disclosed under CDA. Testing is underway to assess its activity against a variety of other fungi. The University believes that the antibody has potential for a number of therapeutic, prophylactic and diagnostic uses in immune-compromised patients. The University of Aberdeen is keen to engage with potential partners to explore collaborative and licensing opportunities.   Key Benefits: Targeted anti Candida antibody Novel mode of action that does not require patient immune system Reduced toxic side effects compared to chemical antifungal agents Potential to be used for other fungi   Applications: Treatment of seriously ill and immune-compromised individuals Prophylaxis of at risk patients Diagnosis of fungal infections   IP Status: UK priority filed