Developing Nanomedicines to Tackle Inflammation and Infection

Blueberry Therapeutics Ltd, a leading pharmaceutical company focused on the major medical problems of inflammation and infection, are exploring the anti-microbial agenda through the development of new anti-fungal drugs and treatments. Located in the BioHub at Alderley Park, Cheshire, they recently received a visit from the Duke of York who heard about the company’s goals to develop new anti-infective treatments.

The company utilises a drug delivery system based on a well-described nanopolymer with over 30 years of safe human use. This system rapidly self-assembles with both small and large molecules (e.g. proteins, peptides and nucleic acids) and “packages” them into nanoparticles which enhances cellular delivery into both mammalian and bacterial cells.

Dr Mike Davies, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Blueberry Therapeutics, commented: “Last year we secured investment that was an extremely significant stepping stone in our journey to deliver new therapies to patients suffering from serious bacterial and fungal infections. The capital will enable Blueberry to progress two anti-fungal programmes to clinical trials this year. In the short-term we are delivering a portfolio of over-the-counter products to generate revenue and thus enable the growth of Blueberry and ensure significant return to our investors.”

Dr Davies added: “We were delighted to be able to host The Duke and present our goals to develop new anti-infective treatments. The Duke of York saw first-hand some of our nanoparticle formulation and characterisation work.”