The patent covers a family of hexapeptide antimicrobial agents, including HB1345, for use as broad spectrum topical anti-infectives. HB1345 will be developed initially for dermatological indications such acne, rosacea and atopic dermatitis.
Subsequent clinical applications are anticipated to include prevention of hospital acquired infections, such as those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and other multi-resistant pathogens.
Stephen Beatty, president and CEO of Helix BioMedix, said: “HB1345 is currently the primary focus of our clinical efforts, and we are actively taking steps to move into clinical development by the end of 2008.
“We believe that the clinical success of HB1345 will serve as a pivotal step in the company’s development and a key driver of the company’s future growth.”