Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes extracted from the stem of the pineapple plant. It is highly proteolytic and has several effects, including inhibition of inflammation and coagulation. The pharma company URSAPHARM in Saarbrücken already has bromelain-based products on the market, and has been working closely with Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) and the Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences for a number of years, to further elucidate bromelain’s composition and mode of action. In the process, the partners have discovered antiviral effects that open up new areas of pplication, including the treatment of COVID patients to alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of severe illness. A Phase IIb study has already been completed for this indication, and the results are being evaluated.
‘This is what motivates us: the opportunity to discover new applications for natural substances with the potential to improve disease therapy,’ says Prof. Rolf Müller, Managing Director of HIPS.
Ascenion’s team has been supporting the partners and has assisted in securing patent protection for their joint invention of bromelain for the treatment and prophylaxis of viral diseases. Ascenion also supported the negotiation of the joint invention agreement and an exclusive licensing agreement that gives URSAPHARM the commercialization rights. The two institutes will continue to provide scientific support during product development and, in the event of a commercial success, will receive a share of the proceeds.
(Annual Review 2021/22)
