Biomimetic antimicrobial peptide inspired by insects to combat multi-drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
As part of the PEPTAMR project, the novel antimicrobial agent OMN6 is being further developed for the treatment of severe infections caused by multi-drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Particular focus is placed on infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), a pathogen of high clinical relevance for which treatment options are limited.
OMN6 is a synthetic cyclic peptide developed to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant A. baumannii – a pathogen classified by the WHO as a ‘critical priority’ pathogen and associated with a high mortality rate. Following a successful Phase 1 trial and an ongoing Phase 2 trial, PEPTAMR is driving the development of OMN6 towards the late clinical development phase, with the aim of delivering a Phase 3 package ready for regulatory submission. The project will expand the collection of clinical data across Europe, complete the preclinical work required to support the dosage and indications, conduct a lung penetration study in healthy volunteers, and finalise a stable, scalable clinical formulation that is ready for manufacture. A roadmap for companion diagnostics will be drawn up to help clinicians identify those patients who stand to benefit most. Led by Omnix Medical in collaboration with Vivexia, the Medical University of Vienna, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and Ecraid, PEPTAMR brings together the strengths of industry and academia to develop the assays, models and clinical evidence required to secure regulatory approval and enable widespread use in hospitals. The ultimate aim is to provide hospitals with a safe, effective and practical treatment against a deadly, difficult-to-treat pathogen.
“This is an exciting project. We will generate key data for the Phase 3 development of OMN6, particularly on its lung penetration and pharmacokinetics, while also exploring its potential for treating severe infections such as sepsis.”