Researchers at the University of Western Australia have received a A$500,000 grant from the CUREator biotech incubator for development of the Spritz-OM probiotic nasal spray for the prevention of ear infections in children. The grant was one of 5 awarded recently as part of an effort to fund projects aimed at minimizing antimicrobial resistance. According to the university, the researchers, led by Adjunct Associate Professor Lea-Ann Kirkham, will use the funds to manufacture Spritz-OM for use in clinical trials.
In a press release from CUREator manager Brandon BioCatalyst, Kirkham commented, “Over 700 million children will suffer an ear infection this year, with one in four experiencing recurrent infections and requiring antibiotics. For First Nations children, this figure rises to one in two children. This funding support from CUREator and the CSIRO will springboard Spritz-OM toward clinical trials to assess our candidate’s safety and efficacy for preventing childhood ear infections.”
Read the University of Western Australia press release.
Read the Brandon BioCatalyst press release.
