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- Global biotech company Zoono (ZNO) develops a nasal spray to treat chronic rhinosinusitis
- In partnership with the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland, testing saw the eradication of bacteria found in patients experiencing sinusitis
- Given the results, Zoono has entered into a co-development and licence agreement with Douglas Pharmaceuticals to assist with further testing in support of commercialisation
- The parties will work to develop and commercialise the use of Zoono-based specialty products, with a nasal spray being the first such product on the table
- ZNO shares are steady to close at 13 cents
Global biotech company Zoono (ZNO) has developed a nasal spray to treat chronic rhinosinusitis.
The company is focused on developing safe, nontoxic and durable germ protection.
This new formulation was developed in partnership with the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland.
Over the past 18 months, testing led by Professor Richard Douglas assessed the treatment against types of bacteria found in patients experiencing sinusitis that can be resistant to antibiotics.
There was a significant reduction in staphylococcus aureus biofilms, which are found in the nose and on the skin, at one hour and eradication at six hours.
Additionally, the product reduced pseudomonas biofilms, found in soil and debris, within five minutes and eradicated within an hour.
Zoono said the results exceeded all expectations and it is looking to complete further laboratory testing and clinical trials to support commercialisation.
However, the company admits it does not have the necessary resources to undertake that task and as such, has entered into a co-development and licence agreement with Douglas Pharmaceuticals.
Zoono and Douglas will work in close collaboration to develop and commercialise the use of Zoono based specialty products, with a nasal spray being the first such product on the table.
Zoono Managing Director Paul Hyslop said given the test results, now is the time to have the “right people” in place to commercialise the new product.
“Douglas is a significant business, and we see the agreement as part of a symbiotic relationship in which specialty products can be taken to markets which Zoono would struggle to achieve on its own,” he said.
“Douglas has global reach, existing contacts and considerable experience within the medical/clinical sectors. They’re a perfect fit for Zoono.”
ZNO shares were steady to close at 13 cents.
