Research and development

Research and Development

Inicure: Innovating Therapies for Inflammatory and Infectious Diseases with Critical Unmet Needs

In developing NOX2-activating drugs, Inicure aims at a totally new mechanism for inhibiting and treating inflammation and infections. NOX2-produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) is an important and effective natural mechanism for the immune system to control inflammatory responses.

Inicure’s cutting-edge research addresses the global challenge of antibiotic resistance by harnessing the innate immune system to treat infections and control inflammation. Our unique small-molecule drugs selectively activate the Formyl Peptide Receptor 1 (FPR1), a key regulator of immune responses. By stimulating the NOX2 pathway, these compounds enhance the immune system’s natural ability to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), critical for bacterial killing and inflammation resolution.

Preclinical efficacy in human cells

Inicure’s technology is versatile, with applications ranging from topical treatments for infected wounds to systemic therapies for severe infections such as urinary tract infections. Our compounds’ water-solubility and specificity set them apart, offering a novel therapeutic pathway that could revolutionize infection treatment.

Our compounds have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in human cells and preclinical models, showing their potential to combat resistant pathogens like Escherichia coli (UPEC) and Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Notably, these drugs do not directly target bacteria, significantly lowering the risk of resistance development. Early safety studies indicate no adverse toxicological effects, making these compounds strong candidates for clinical development.

(Image to the right) Lind, S, Dahlgren, C, Holmdahl, R, Olofsson, P, Forsman, H. Functional selective FPR1 signalling in favour of an activation of the neutrophil superoxide generating NOX2 complex. J Leukoc Biol. 2021; 109: 1105– 1120. https://doi.org/10.1002/JLB.2HI0520-317R

(images by Biorender, produced by Dr Heather Chicks, Swansea University)

Want to collaborate with us?

We are actively seeking collaborations and partnerships to advance our development, with the aim of delivering next-generation products in the battle against infections.