First-in-class peptide therapeutics against pneumococcal diseases

We are pioneering a new class of non-antibiotic therapeutics that target Streptococcus pneumoniae through a unique mechanism: selective peptide uptake via the conserved Ami permease. Our lead candidate, V11A, shows potent bacteriostatic activity—including against antibiotic-resistant strains—while reducing disease-driven inflammation and acting specifically against S. pneumoniae, sparing other, beneficial, bacteria. Designed to work alongside antibiotics, it restores susceptibility and reduces disease complications. Having validated our technology in disease-relevant preclinical models, our approach opens a new front in the fight against invasive pneumococcal disease.