Latest news with #antimicrobial
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Brii Biosciences Announces Licensing Agreement with Joincare Group for Rights to BRII-693 in Greater China
Joincare Group to lead the clinical development and commercialization of BRII-693 in Greater China Brii Biosciences retains ex-Greater China rights to address the global antimicrobial resistance threats and continues investment in other priority pipeline assets DURHAM, N.C. and BEIJING, July 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Brii Biosciences Limited ("Brii Bio," stock code: a biotechnology company developing therapies to improve patient health and choice across diseases with high unmet medical needs, today announced that it has entered into a license and technology transfer agreement with Joincare Pharmaceutical Group Industry Co., Ltd ("Joincare Group"). Joincare Group will obtain an exclusive license from Brii Bio for the research, development, and commercialization of BRII-693 in the Greater China region. Under the terms of the agreement, Joincare Group will assume full responsibility for the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of BRII-693 in Greater China. In return, Brii Bio has received an upfront payment and will receive additional development and commercial milestone payments upon certain future milestone events plus tiered royalties on net product sales. BRII-693 is a novel synthetic lipopeptide in development for the treatment of critically ill patients with multidrug- and extensively drug-resistant (MDR/XDR) gram-negative bacterial infections, particularly those caused by carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) and Enterobacterales (CRE). Discovered through iterative structural modifications of the polymyxin scaffold, BRII-693 was designed to enhance antibacterial potency while reducing the toxicity commonly associated with older polymyxin agents such as renal and neuro-toxicities. In phase 1 studies, BRII-693 demonstrated a favorable safety, tolerability, and PK profile in healthy non-Chinese and Chinese participants. Brii Bio received IND approval from CDE of NMPA for a Phase 1 PK bridging study in China supporting a future Phase 3 registrational trial in patients with hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia/ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia. Dr. Zhi Hong, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Brii Bio, commented: "The growing threat of antimicrobial resistance in Greater China underscores the urgency for novel hospital antibiotics. With Joincare Group's proven capabilities in manufacturing and commercializing hospital antibiotics, we found the ideal partner to accelerate the development and commercialization of BRII-693. This partnership enables us to deliver a critical care medicine to Chinese patients facing life threatening infections." Mr. Nanqi Lin, Chief Executive Officer of Joincare Group, stated, "The Company has a long-standing track record of excellence in innovative drug research and development, underpinned by deep scientific expertise and a robust R&D platform. Driven by Brii Bio's well-established R&D system, the BRII-693 project demonstrated strong innovation and scientific rigor. Early data showing encouraging results in terms of therapeutic potential, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics, suggesting BRII-693's high potential to become a best-in-class therapy to address the critical unmet clinical needs. We are confident in the clinical prospects of BRII-693. This collaboration further strengthened Joincare Group's strategic positioning in the anti-infection disease area. We look forward to launching this asset soon, providing patients with more high-quality treatment options." About BRII-693 BRII-693 is a novel synthetic lipopeptide in development for the treatment of critically ill patients with MDR/XDR gram-negative bacterial infections, especially carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Brii Bio holds exclusive global rights to develop and commercialize BRII-693. About Brii Bio Brii Biosciences Limited ("Brii Bio", stock code: is a biotechnology company developing therapies to address major public health challenges where patients experience high unmet medical needs, limited choice and significant social stigmas. With a focus on infectious diseases, the Company is advancing a broad pipeline of unique therapeutic candidates with lead programs against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The Company is led by a visionary and experienced leadership team and has operations in key biotech hubs, including Raleigh-Durham, the San Francisco Bay Area, Beijing and Shanghai. For more information, visit About Joincare Group Established in 1992, Joincare Group (Joincare Pharmaceutical Group Industry Co., Ltd) is an innovative scientific research-based integrated pharmaceutical group after many years of steady operation and rapid development. The group owns two major listed companies, Joincare and Livzon Pharmaceutical, as well as more than 20 major holding subsidiaries. The company has always adhered to the concept of scientific and technological innovation as the cornerstone, implementing a dual-driver strategy focused on innovative drugs and high-barrier complex formulation technology platforms, and has carried out rich pipeline layouts around respiratory, anti-infective, gastrointestinal, assisted reproduction, psychiatric, oncology and other areas of significant clinical needs, forming a rich and diversified product matrix and pipeline of drugs under development. Forward-looking Statements This contains the disclosure of some forward-looking statements. Except for statements of facts, all other statements can be regarded as forward-looking statements, that is, about our or our management's intentions, plans, beliefs, or expectations that will or may occur in the future. Such statements are assumptions and estimates made by our management based on its experience and knowledge of historical trends, current conditions, expected future development and other related factors. This forward-looking statement does not guarantee future performance, and actual results, development and business decisions may not match the expectations of the forward-looking statement. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to a large number of risks and uncertainties, which may affect our short-term and long-term performance. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Brii Biosciences Limited
ABC News
18-06-2025
- Health
- ABC News
Australian sugarbag honey from stingless bees found to have antimicrobial properties
Bees are the unsung heroes of the food chain, but it is not just golden nectar this humble insect provides. It has been revealed that Australian sugarbag honey can help kill off bacteria and fungi that is harmful to human health — all thanks to native, stingless bees. The new study from University of Sydney researchers found the stingless bees are unlocking their honey's antimicrobial properties and stopping particular pathogens from becoming drug resistant. It is welcome news, considering experts in infectious diseases forecasted drug-resistant superbugs could kill up to 39 million people by 2050. Mycologist and lead researcher Kenya Fernandes said current treatments we use for bacterial and fungal infections may not be as effective in the future. She said it is the sheer number of compounds in sugarbag honey — all of which have their own antimicrobial qualities — that could be of significant scientific use. In order for the bacteria and fungi to survive the honey's compounds, they would need to develop multiple mutations all at the same time, which is an "incredibly unlikely" possibility. Although the benefits of bees have been under the microscope of researchers for some time, First Nations bush medicine has been using honey for thousands of years to help fight infection. Compared to manuka, which gets its antibacterial properties from nectar, sugarbag honey gets its strength from the native bees. For Dr Fernandes, she and her colleagues tested honey produced from three species of Australian stingless bees, being Tetragonula carbonaria, Tetragonula hockingsi and Austroplebeia australis. The study used a range of bacteria and fungi to test the honey on, including tinea, golden staph, E. coli and the yeast Cryptococcus neoformans, which causes a serious lung infection. PhD student Jasmin Li, who worked alongside Dr Fernandes, said many types of honey contain hydrogen peroxide, which is known for its antiseptic properties. The researchers realised the peroxide overshadowed other potential activity present in the honey, so they removed it through heat treatment. The results revealed that even after the peroxide was removed, every sample of honey showed activity in reducing bacteria and fungi. Even more surprising — the honey's microbe-fighting properties persisted through heat treatment and long-term storage, with one batch of honey having sat for 18 years before being used in the study. With further research, the honey could eventually be used to treat wounds or skin infections. "We still have a way to go to figure out how we can safely emulate these honey into those kinds of treatments, but we're very optimistic because of the way that the honey works," Dr Fernandes said. There are a few hurdles the native bees must buzz through before their honey hits pharmacy shelves. "Australian stingless bees do face a number of different threats. For example, habitat loss due to land clearance, climate change and also the overuse of pesticide," Ms Li said. The study also discussed the difficulties in scaling up honey production. Australian stingless bees are much smaller than the average European honey bee, producing only half a litre of honey a year. One way to improve scalability would be for more people to keep beehives as pets, given these native bees are low maintenance compared to honey bees. Sugarbag honey was granted approval for human consumption by Food Standards Australia New Zealand just last year. While the study shows promise, Dr Fernandes hopes further research will look into the honey's untapped medical potential.
Associated Press
13-06-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Xediton Pharmaceuticals Inc. ("Xediton") Announced Today the Canadian Approval and Availability of Vabomere(r) (Meropenem-Vaborbactam) in Canada
Oakville, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - June 12, 2025) - Xediton Pharmaceuticals Inc. is proud to announce that Vabomere® (meropenem-vaborbactam) has been approved by Health Canada and is now commercially available across the country. Vabomere is indicated in adults for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections including pyelonephritis, complicated intra-abdominal infection, hospital acquired pneumonia including ventilator associated pneumonia, bacteremia and other infections with limited treatment options known or suspected to be caused by susceptible microorganisms, including KPC-producing CRE—one of the most critical AMR threats identified by Health Canada and the World Health Organization. 'The launch of Vabomere® in Canada marks a significant milestone for our company, patients and healthcare practitioners,' said George Gafrey, President of Xediton Pharmaceuticals. This therapy provides physicians with a much-needed tool to treat life-threatening infections caused by organisms that are increasingly difficult to manage. We are proud of the collaborative effort by the Melinta and Xediton teams to make the product available, and we are committed to ensuring it reaches those who need it most.' 'We are thrilled that VABOMERE is now readily accessible to patients in Canada,' said Christine Ann Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer at Melinta. We are pleased to be able to partner with Xediton Pharmaceuticals in support of the registration and commercializing of VABOMERE in Canada, continuing to deliver on Melinta's commitment of ensuring that all people who need our life-saving therapies can get them.' Vabomere combines meropenem, a trusted broad-spectrum carbapenem, with vaborbactam, a novel β-lactamase inhibitor. The approval is supported by data from TANGO II, a global Phase III clinical trial demonstrating improved clinical cure rates and survival compared to best available therapy in patients with CRE infections. Vabomere reflects Xediton Pharma's commitment to supporting antimicrobial stewardship and advancing therapies that protect patients and preserve the power of antibiotics. About Vabomere® VABOMERE is an antibacterial combination product for intravenous infusion containing meropenem (a trusted carbapenem) and vaborbactam (a novel beta-lactamase inhibitor). VABOMERE is indicated in adults for the treatment of the following infections known or suspected to be caused by carbapenem-resistant, vaborbactam/meropenem-susceptible Gram-negative bacteria: Gram-negative organisms include Enterobacterales, such as Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of VABOMERE and other antibacterial drugs, VABOMERE should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy. For further information on VABOMERE, please consult the product monograph available at: About Xediton Pharmaceuticals Inc. Xediton Pharmaceuticals is a specialty pharmaceutical company with a focus on meeting the needs of patients, physicians and partners. Xediton Pharmaceuticals is committed to developing, partnering and making available new and established medicines to promote the health of Canadians. Located in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, Xediton Pharmaceuticals has products in Oncology, Anti-Infectives, Pain, CNS, GI, Ophthalmology, Renal and CV and has built strong strategic alliances with Global and International Healthcare and pharmaceutical companies. For more information, please visit About Melinta Therapeutics Melinta Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to providing innovative therapies to people impacted by acute and life-threatening illnesses. The company focuses its expanding portfolio on serving patients with an unmet need because that's how it makes the most meaningful impact. Melinta Therapeutics' portfolio currently includes seven commercial-stage products: BAXDELA® (delafloxacin), KIMYRSA® (oritavancin), MINOCIN® (minocycline) for Injection, ORBACTIV® (oritavancin), REZZAYO® (rezafungin for injection), TOPROL-XL® (metoprolol succinate) and VABOMERE® (meropenem and vaborbactam). For more information about Melinta Therapeutics, its commitment to patients, and its portfolio of therapies, including their important safety information, visit Contact: George Gafrey, President of Xediton Pharmaceuticals Inc. Email: [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit
BBC News
29-05-2025
- Business
- BBC News
'Watching paint dry isn't boring, we invented some', Nottingham scientists say
Scientists have spent "a large amount" of time watching paint dry as part of their research to create a new bacteria-busting antimicrobial paint, which contains the disinfectant Chlorhexidine, has been found to kill bacteria which is usually resistant to disinfectants - including standalone Felicity De Cogan and PhD student Madeline Berrow watched the paint "time-cure" with and without the disinfectant added, to make sure it still behaved and dried the it gets regulatory approval, the pair intend for the paint to be used in medical and public spaces which need cleaning or disinfecting - ranging from hospitals to toilets. Dr De Cogan, from the University of Nottingham, said the idea for the paint stemmed from the coronavirus pandemic to kill Covid-19 on surfaces."Although it's taken us several years, and we're no longer in the pandemic, I still think it has so many uses," Dr De Cogan added. Ms Berrow said the project was "exciting" despite the hours watching paint dry."It's good to see such hard work [be successful]. A lot of blood, sweat, and tears have gone into this project and it's nice to see something has really come alight from it," she said."We can actually see it being used in industry to reduce disease transmission, which is what we wanted."The project is a partnership between the university and the company Indestructible Paint. The scientists said they were uncertain why the Chlorhexidine disinfectant is more effective inside the paint than on its own, which will take more Ms Berrow said it would be a good alternative to other antimicrobial surfaces because it does not need "specialised" prospective user could simply paint it Norton, managing director of Indestructible Paint, said it could provide a "huge benefit" for coating areas where bacteria is known to grow, such as aeroplane seats and tray tables."It's still in the early stages but we look forward to further testing," he said.
Telegraph
09-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Telegraph
The self-cleaning surfaces that can reduce your cleaning workload
Imagine a home that cleans itself. It's a dream that feels closer to reality than ever, and it doesn't always involve robots or high-tech vacuums. Nor are we referring to white gloves and harsh chemical detergents. Ultimately, it comes down to the finishes and materials you choose for your floors, walls, surfaces and more. As experts point out, a hygiene-optimised home starts with smart interior choices – these, rather than cleaning products, are what redefine home cleanliness today. Let's step back for a moment and consider what a 'self-cleaning home' actually means. At its core, it's about designing interiors that actively protect our health by incorporating materials that are naturally resistant to stains, scratches, bacteria and daily wear. From advanced tiles and paints to technical fabrics, specialist glass and high-performance worktops, these options can significantly reduce your cleaning load and help to create a pristine living environment. Think quartz countertops, anti-fingerprint laminates, ceramic tiles with self-cleaning glazes, UV-activated surfaces, and antimicrobial metals such as copper-infused worktops – there's a growing list to choose from. So, if you want to take a step back from constant cleaning, the following materials are worth considering. Countertops While laminates are usually known for their versatility in colour, texture and design, some options are surprisingly effective at staying clean and low-maintenance, too. 'The Wilsonart Traceless collection is a go-to,' says interior designer Jane Lockhart. 'It's ultra-matte, available in more than 20 colours, and perfect for a clean, modern, monolithic look. It's also extremely durable.' The surface's fingerprint-resistant properties and velvety matte texture make it feel hygienic, and effortless to maintain. 'Porcelain tiles with nano-coating technology have impressive self-cleaning properties,' adds interior designer Nishtha Vashist, who recommends the companies Daltile and Porcelanosa. 'These surfaces resist dirt build-up, are antibacterial, and only need a quick wipe-down to look pristine.' Dekton (from £270 per square metre) is another excellent choice for both kitchens and bathrooms. 'It's engineered to be virtually indestructible, naturally scratch-resistant, stain-proof and UV-resistant – perfect for outdoor applications too,' adds Vashist. Iris Ceramica 's Active Surfaces ceramic surface (from £96 per square metre) is a game-changer. It oxidises and breaks down organic and inorganic pollutants using photocatalysis, a process activated by light, air and moisture (similar to the way in which photosynthesis converts CO₂ into oxygen). These surfaces remain cleaner for longer and contribute to a healthier indoor environment. While no worktop is completely 'self-cleaning', copper-infused surfaces naturally reduce bacterial presence. The aged copper worktops by deVOL, for example, have amazing inherent antibacterial properties (though they are not recommended for direct food preparation as the copper can taint the taste of food). Naturally antiseptic and anti-fungal, copper is an ideal material for high-touch areas, and can be applied to taps or handles, eliminating up to 99.9 per cent of bacteria within two hours. Flooring The Colour Flooring Company 's Corka (from £34 per square metre) is ideal for busy homeowners who want to clean less. 'Corka is naturally hypoallergenic and doesn't absorb dust – great for asthma sufferers. It also holds indoor air-quality ratings such as Greenguard Gold [which indicates that a product has been tested and proven to have low chemical emissions],' says the company's co-founder, Lena Corner. 'It's perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms and hallways, as the natural variation in cork hides crumbs and dirt easily. With Corka, less is more when it comes to cleaning: we recommend little more than a well-wrung mop.' Panaria 's Protect ceramic tiles, which inhibit bacterial growth throughout their lifespan, are also notable (from around £49 per square metre). Atlas Concorde 's Sensitech tiles (from around £66 per square metre) have anti-slip properties – but unlike traditional anti-slip tiles, which have grooves that trap dust, these have a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. Paints and wall textures Yes, the pretty finishes you choose for the way they look can contribute to a low-maintenance lifestyle as well. 'Self-cleaning and anti-dust paints are a game-changer for homes prone to humidity or pollution,' says Vashist, who has used specialist exterior paints by the American brand Sherwin-Williams in indoor areas such as boot rooms. In the UK, Emperor Paint produces paints with self-cleaning properties for exterior surfaces (£69 for five litres), which prevent water from clinging to the surface, causing it to bead and roll off instead. As the water droplets move, they carry away dirt and contaminants, helping to keep the surface clean and protected with minimal maintenance. Aside from paint, designers Felix and Caroline Milns of Zulufish recommend polished plaster for interiors, as it is exceptionally durable and doesn't stain. The company Armourcoat offers polished plaster which is not only beautiful but also easy to maintain due to its blend of slaked lime, crushed minerals and recycled marble, which help to make it resistant to mould and mildew (price dependent on project). Fabrics Interior designers often use outdoor-appropriate fabrics for indoor upholstery, due to their durability and easy-cleaning properties. 'Performance fabrics such as Crypton (from around £25 per metre) and Sunbrella (from around £36 per metre) are considered the gold standard, as these are designed with stain, moisture- and odour-resistance built into every fibre – not just added as a treatment on top,' says Vashist. 'They're perfect for upholstery in high-traffic areas like living rooms and family spaces.' With ready-made sofas and armchairs, look for those that can be treated with a stain-resistant finish. Windows If you're tired of cleaning windows constantly, Pilkington Activ self-cleaning glass (from £163 per square metre) is a great solution. Its coating uses daylight to break down organic dirt, and rain spreads evenly across the surface to wash it away without streaks. Similarly, Saint-Gobain Bioclean glass (from around £150 per square metre) harnesses UV light to break down grime, which rain or a quick rinse can quickly remove. By choosing hard-working materials such as these, creating a low-maintenance interior is no longer a futuristic fantasy, but a practical design decision which can give you more time to enjoy your home, rather than clean it.
