Through the exclusive channel collaboration (ECC) between Oragenics and synthetic biology company Intrexon, preliminary experiments are demonstrating that a genetically modified (GM) host can be engineered to produce improved titers of MU1140 – OGEN’s lead compound – progressing toward the commercial production of lantibiotics (a novel class of broad spectrum antibiotics).

Two new methods of purifying MU1140 have also been uncovered through the collaboration, resulting in higher purity and yields of the compound. The next step will be using the GM host to produce analogs of MU1140 that are anticipated to show improved antimicrobial, chemical, and pharmacological properties – with an objective of building a comprehensive antibiotic pipeline against a variety of life-threatening indications.

Due to low titers and purification issues, it was originally thought that producing MU1140 by fermentation would not be commercially viable. But the Oragenics-Intrexon ECC has shown that applying specific expertise in key areas may allow a feasible commercial strategy and ultimately bring these drugs into human clinical studies. The Oragenics R&D team, which includes respected antibiotic commercialization experts, is currently designing preclinical development plans.

Oragenics and Intrexon entered into an ECC in June of 2012 to develop and commercialize lantibiotics for the treatment of infectious diseases. The companies are now pursuing a pipeline of new lantibiotics that are especially active against various Gram positive bacteria that are resistant to drugs of last resort.

For more information, visit www.oragenics.com

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