Shionogi & Co., Ltd. recently announced that its subsidiary, Qpex Biopharma, Inc., has exercised a $10 million option granted by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). This additional funding, part of an ongoing partnership with BARDA, aims to support Qpex’s antibiotic clinical development program. Under the existing contract with BARDA, which provides up to $132 million in support, this option was exercised to bolster the advancement of Qpex’s portfolio of new therapies.
Michael N. Dudley, President and CEO of Qpex, expressed gratitude for the continued support from BARDA, emphasizing the significant progress achieved since the merger with Shionogi. This collaboration underscores the commitment to combatting drug-resistant infections through innovative solutions.
The awarded funds will primarily be allocated towards the advancement of xeruborbactam, an investigational beta-lactamase inhibitor. Clinical studies, focusing on both intravenous and oral combinations, will be conducted to address infections caused by drug-resistant gram-negative bacteria.
John Keller, Senior Executive Officer and Senior Vice President of R&D Supervisory Unit at Shionogi, highlighted the pressing need for innovation in combating antimicrobial resistance. The combined expertise of Qpex and Shionogi aims to accelerate the development of solutions for treating drug-resistant infections on a global scale.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the United States witnesses over 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections annually, with drug-resistant gram-negative bacteria posing severe and challenging-to-treat infections. Qpex’s portfolio targets several of these critical pathogens.
Qpex’s acquisition by Shionogi Inc., a U.S. subsidiary of Shionogi & Co., Ltd., in 2023, has strengthened the global efforts to develop antimicrobials. The collaboration has amalgamated experienced leadership teams and research capabilities, fostering progress in advancing promising products. With a track record of regulatory approvals and ongoing progress in product development, Qpex remains committed to addressing the urgent need for effective antimicrobial solutions.
