#United States #Dover #Bacterial Vaginosis #Precisio Biotix #Antimicrobials

Precisio Biotix Therapeutics Announces a Significant Grant

On June 16, 2025, Precisio Biotix Therapeutics, Inc., a biotechnology firm based in Delaware, proudly announced that it had secured a grant from the esteemed Gates Foundation. This funding aims to bolster their efforts in discovering engineered lysins, novel enzymes designed to combat bacterial vaginosis (BV), a prevalent yet often overlooked gynecological issue.

Bacterial Vaginosis occurs when there’s an imbalance in the naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina, leading to symptoms that can compromise women’s health. The condition is often difficult to treat effectively with conventional antibiotics, which can exacerbate problems by promoting bacterial resistance. The new antibacterial approach using engineered lysins could offer a groundbreaking solution by specifically targeting harmful bacteria while leaving beneficial microorganisms unharmed.

Utilizing Advanced Technology for Better Outcomes

The funding from the Gates Foundation will empower Precisio to utilize its advanced Zeus™-LysiThru™ platform, an innovative integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning. This technology is designed to conduct high-throughput screening, enabling the identification of lysins that possess both superior activity and specificity. According to Mark Engel, the founder and CEO of Precisio, this grant will play a crucial role in the pursuit of therapeutics aimed at eliminating BV-related bacteria. The ultimate goal is to foster stable ecosystems of Lactobacillus – beneficial bacteria linked to lower incidences of HIV, STDs, and prenatal complications, including pre-term births.

A Focused Research Approach

Dr. Mya Thandar, Director of Zeus™-LysiThru™, highlighted the importance of the proprietary tools they have developed, which will facilitate cost-effective production methods essential for low- and middle-income countries. Bacterial vaginosis, with its multiple causative agents, represents an ideal focus for their research initiative.

Moreover, Dr. Raymond Schuch, VP and Director of US Operations, indicated that Precisio aims to systematically engineer native lysins to combat antimicrobial-resistant pathogens posing significant medical challenges. The team is excited about venturing into vaginal healthcare, aiming to ensure the development of lysins with enhanced pharmacokinetic dynamics, which could offer improved patient outcomes.

Dr. Matthew Cummings, CEO of Precisio's UK-based subsidiary CC Bio, expressed enthusiasm for this research journey, noting how the integrated Zeus™ and LysiThru™ platforms enable the rapid design of new enzymes with desirable drug-like properties. This project is anticipated to serve as a valuable test case for their technology in a crucial health domain that requires more attention.

Broader Implications of Engineered Lysin Discoveries

Engel summarized the significant potential impact of the lysins they hope to discover through this funded initiative. Beyond just targeting bacterial vaginosis, these engineered enzymes can be produced in stable formulations at an affordable cost, making them accessible in both developed and low-resource markets where BV is a notable issue. The partnership with the Gates Foundation is poised to enhance scientific advancements in this field significantly.

A Pioneering Step Towards Optimal Health Solutions

Precisio Biotix Therapeutics stands on the verge of groundbreaking research that could redefine how bacterial vaginosis is treated. This initiative not only reflects a strong commitment to women's health but also sets the stage for innovations in tackling other health diseases in the future. With a focus on developing targeted and effective therapies, Precisio exemplifies how modern biotechnology can address pressing health challenges faced by women around the world.