BioVersys and GSK Join Forces to Fight Tuberculosis

May 7, 2024, 3:32 pm
BioVersys AG
BioVersys AG
BioTechDevelopmentFinTechHealthTechHumanLifeMedTechProductionResearchTechnology
Location: Switzerland, Basel-City, Basel
Total raised: $158.89M
BioVersys and GSK team up to tackle tuberculosis with innovative drug development, securing additional funding to push the boundaries of treatment options for patients in need.

In a world where tuberculosis continues to pose a serious threat to public health, BioVersys and GSK are taking a stand. Through a strategic collaboration, these two powerhouse companies are working together to accelerate the clinical development of alpibectir, a groundbreaking drug candidate for the treatment of tuberculosis.

Alpibectir, developed through a successful partnership with GSK, Pasteur Institute Lille, and the University of Lille, is a small molecule that acts in a completely new way to combat tuberculosis. By enhancing the effectiveness of an existing antibiotic, ethionamide, alpibectir offers a fresh approach to tackling this deadly disease.

The current clinical trials in South Africa are showing promising results, prompting BioVersys and GSK to expand their collaboration. Together, they aim to bring alpibectir to patients suffering from both pulmonary and meningeal tuberculosis, providing hope for those in need of effective treatment options.

To support this vital work, GSK has made an equity investment in BioVersys, contributing to the extension of the Series C financing round by CHF 12.3 million. This additional funding, combined with support from existing and new investors, brings the total raised to CHF 44.9 million, ensuring that the development of alpibectir and other innovative antibiotics, like BV100, can continue to progress.

Dr. Marc Gitzinger, CEO of BioVersys, expressed his enthusiasm for the expanded collaboration with GSK, highlighting the potential impact of their joint efforts on the fight against tuberculosis. Thomas Breuer, Chief Global Health Officer at GSK, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in addressing global health challenges.

With tuberculosis remaining a leading cause of death worldwide, the need for new and effective treatment options is more pressing than ever. Through their collaboration, BioVersys and GSK are working towards a future where tuberculosis is no longer a death sentence, but a disease that can be effectively treated and managed.

In a world where innovation is key to overcoming the challenges we face, BioVersys and GSK are leading the way in the fight against tuberculosis. Together, they are pushing the boundaries of what is possible, bringing hope to patients and communities around the world.