Polyphor discovers new class of antibiotics effective against multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria

Today, Polyphor Ltd published the discovery of a new class of antibiotics with a novel mode of action (Science, VOL 327, ISSUE 5968). This proprietary new class of antibiotics is effective against multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria, opening up new treatment options for serious and often life-threatening infections. The most advanced drug candidate in this new class, POL7080, selectively kills the dangerous bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

“The discovery of a new class of antibiotics with a novel mode of action exemplifies the power of the PEM Technology to yield a new class of drugs that complements established drug classes, such as small molecules and biopharmaceuticals”

In collaboration with Prof. John Robinson at the University of Zürich, Polyphor applied its proprietary Protein Epitope Mimetics Technology (PEM Technology) to identify new antibiotics that either act against a broad-spectrum of bacteria or selectively target one particular bacterial strain. This joint research effort resulted in the discovery of a new drug target and mechanism of action by which Gram-negative bacteria are killed effectively.

Many Gram-negative bacteria have become multi-drug resistant in recent years as they have developed mechanisms to escape the therapeutic effects of current antibiotic drugs. New antibiotics against drug resistant bacteria are thus urgently needed as the current arsenal of drugs becomes ineffective against such resistant pathogens. However, in the history of pharmaceutical research, the discovery of a new class of antibiotics with a novel mechanism of action is a rare event occurring only about once every 20 years. This reported discovery therefore represents a major breakthrough in antibiotic research.

The leading antibiotic PEMdrug candidate POL7080 represents an important new weapon to combat life-threatening infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa which frequently occur in the hospital setting or in chronic lung infections. Polyphor is currently preparing the start of Phase I clinical trials with POL7080 to rapidly advance the clinical development and has initiated out-licensing negotiations with Pharma partners.

Dr. Jean-Pierre Obrecht, CEO of Polyphor, commented:

“The discovery of a new class of antibiotics with a novel mode of action exemplifies the power of the PEM Technology to yield a new class of drugs that complements established drug classes, such as small molecules and biopharmaceuticals”.

Dr. Daniel Obrecht, CSO of Polyphor, added:

“This breakthrough in antibiotic research is the result of ten years of intense collaboration between Polyphor and the University of Zurich. Emerging resistance observed in Pseudomonas aeruginosa against all current antibiotics constitutes a real threat for patients. This new class of antibiotics therefore closes an important gap for future treatment options”.