MRCF launches Perth-based biotech developing new treatment for Cystic Fibrosis
Summary
The Medical Research Commercialisation Funds Biomedical Translation Fund (MRCF BTF) today announced the launch of a new biotech company, Respirion Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd (Respirion).Respirion is developing a novel antibiotic therapy for the treatment of the life-threatening disease, Cystic Fibrosis (CF), combining an inhaled version of an approved drug that is normally used to capture and dispose of excess metals in the bloodstream with the standard of care antibiotic in a novel formulation and device.MRCF BTF has committed up to AU$20M in stages in collaboration with the Telethon Kids Institute, where the technology was incubated and the spin-off created, and the Western Australian Department of Health where the product was tested. This is the MRCF BTFs first investment in Western Australia.The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, based in the United States, has committed up to US$3M in funding to the development program. The CF Foundation is the worlds leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis, and nearly every CF-specific drug available today was made possible with their support.Cystic Fibrosis is a debilitating, genetic disease where persisting lung infections and progressive lung damage severely limit the quality and length of life of those with it, says Dr Kath Giles, Respirion Director and Consultant with MRCF fund manager, Brandon Capital Partners. Early signals from the initial patient study, and the broader scientific support for new antibacterial options, make this one of the most exciting therapies under development in this area.Most of the recent attention in CF drug development has focused on addressing the genetic abnormality which causes the proteins that regulate the proper flow of water and chloride in and out of cells lining the lungs to be defective. My daily experience in treating Cystic Fibrosis patients for over thirty years at Perth Childrens Hospital, led me to the realisation that if we are to improve the reduction in bacterial load, and ultimately the fatal lung damage that occurs as a result of these infections, new approaches are imperative.Were excited to be working with the MRCF, whose investment will help us make that critical step from research to the eventual clinical use of a potential treatment.