MHH- and HZI-projects attract EUR 1.6 million from IBT Lower Saxony

PROTON builds on groundbreaking work of Prof. Mark Brönstrup and his team at the Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI) on virulence mechanisms of Staphylococcus aureus, which causes a wide variety of clinical diseases. Their goal is to disarm the bacteria by blocking their toxins rather than killing them, which is becoming increasingly difficult due to the dramatic rise in antibiotic resistance. Together with the Lead Discovery Center (LDC), they have generated highly effective small molecule inhibitors targeting the pathogen’s key toxin, α-haemolysin. They have already established proof-of-concept in models with high translational relevance and are currently preparing clinical trials in the field of skin infections.

Bacta Implants is led by Dr Verena Scheper who, together with her colleagues at Hannover Medical School (MHH), pioneers the use of customized implants for the treatment of hearing disorders. Using 3D printing they have generated elastic implants that contain therapeutics against hearing loss and match each patient's unique physiology. Once implanted they will release the therapeutics exactly where they are needed, even in areas of the body that are usually difficult to access. Results from first trials in individual patients with sudden hearing loss are highly promising. The next step will be a full clinical trial, which is already being prepared.

Ascenion helped both teams to secure patent protection and will support them on their way to spin-off formation.

The Institute for Biomedical Translation (IBT) is a project launched by the state of Lower Saxony to support the establishment of new start-ups in the field of biomedical research, attract successful companies and investors, and strengthen the regional economy.

Further information: Website IBT