Prokaryotics, a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel anti-infective therapies, has strategically collaborated with Basilea Pharmaceutica to jointly develop a first-in-class broad-spectrum antifungal treatment for severe invasive infections.

The collaboration centres on a new programme of antifungal molecules with a novel mode of action designed to address critical unmet medical needs in patients suffering from invasive infections caused by Candida, Aspergillus and rare mold species. The partners aim to identify and advance a clinical candidate, after which Basilea will lead further clinical development.

Dr. Terry Roemer, Chief Scientific Officer of Prokaryotics, said the partnership aligns strongly with the company’s mission to discover innovative anti-infectives. He added, “Serious fungal infections cause an estimated 1.7 million deaths globally each year and that rising resistance to existing antifungal therapies has intensified the need for new treatment approaches.”

Highlighting on the partnership, Pamela Demain, CEO, Prokaryotics, noted that Basilea’s global leadership in antifungal drug development makes it an ideal partner to help advance promising discoveries toward patients worldwide.

Dr. Laurenz Kellenberger, Chief Scientific Officer of Basilea, emphasized the ongoing need for safe, effective, and easily administered antifungal therapies with activity against priority pathogens. He said, “This collaboration reinforces Basilea’s commitment to addressing serious fungal infections by combining complementary scientific and development expertise.”

Under the agreement, Basilea will provide Prokaryotics with an undisclosed upfront payment and near-term milestone payments. Following the selection of a clinical candidate, Basilea will assume responsibility for clinical development and global commercialisation under an exclusive worldwide license. Prokaryotics will be eligible to receive up to USD 48.5 million in development, regulatory and commercial milestones, along with tiered low single-digit royalties on global net sales.