New Zealand-based biotech startup, Kimer Med, has recently inked a substantial contract valued at up to $750,000 (NZD$1.3 million) with Battelle, recognized as the world’s largest independent nonprofit research and development organization.
Kimer Med
The 12-month contract, funded by the United States government through the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), is set to be a pivotal component of Battelle’s Accelerated Therapeutics for Combating Acute Viral Epidemics program. The primary focus of this collaboration is the exploration and development of novel antiviral drug candidates tailored for the treatment of alphaviruses.
Alphaviruses, predominantly transmitted by infected ticks and mosquitoes, pose a significant threat to both human and animal health. Infections resulting in encephalitis, characterized by inflammation and swelling of the brain, often prove fatal and can lead to enduring neurological complications. Presently, there exists no efficacious antiviral treatment specifically designed to combat alphavirus infections.
Since its establishment in 2020, Kimer Med has been at the forefront of antiviral research, successfully formulating antivirals that have demonstrated in vitro efficacy against a spectrum of 11 different viruses, notably including the priority viruses Dengue (all four serotypes) and Zika.
The innovative technology pioneered by Kimer Med holds immense promise in providing indispensable broad-spectrum antiviral treatments with diverse applications. These applications span infectious diseases, pandemic preparedness, military utilization, and support for healthcare and first responders.
Kimer Med’s groundbreaking work in developing antiviral solutions has positioned them as a key player in the fight against a range of viral threats. Notably, their focus on alphaviruses through the recent collaboration with Battelle is a significant step forward in addressing the urgent need for effective treatments against these formidable pathogens.
The 12-month contract with Battelle underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing scientific research and combating emerging health challenges. With funding from the U.S. government, facilitated by DTRA, this collaboration aims to accelerate the discovery and development of antiviral drugs specifically tailored to combat alphaviruses, ultimately mitigating the severe consequences of these infections.
Kimer Med’s dedication to the development of antiviral therapies, coupled with Battelle’s extensive expertise, positions this collaboration as a critical initiative in the ongoing efforts to enhance global preparedness against acute viral epidemics. The potential impact of this partnership extends beyond the immediate focus on alphaviruses, offering a platform for the development of versatile antiviral treatments with wide-ranging applications across various sectors.
