Early Development Programs
As part of a spinoff from Vicuron Pharmaceuticals, Naicons acquired the following assets:
NAI-Acne
A semi-synthetic thiopeptide, produced by Planobispora rosea, highly selective against Propionibacterium acnes, including antibiotic-resistant strains. No activity against other skin flora. The compound targets elongation factor Tu in protein synthesis. It is being developed for the topical treatment of moderate-severe acne. Recently licensed to Cassiopea SpA, it has completed a phase II proof-of-concept clinical study.
NAI-107 (and related lantibiotics)
A family of related lantibiotics highly active and rapidly bactericidal against aerobic and anaerobic Gram-positive pathogens, including all antibiotic-resistant strains (e.g. MRSA and VRE). Efficacious in several experimental models of infection (septicemia, endocarditis, granuloma pouch), NAI-107, produced by Microbispora sp. 107891, has favorable pharmacological properties and a good safety profile. The compound inhibits cell wall synthesis by binding to lipid II. It is being developed for iv treatment of serious infections by Gram-positive bacteria. The compounds are available for licensing.
NAI-603
A semi-synthetic derivative of ramoplanin, produced by Actinoplanes sp. ATCC 33076, highly active against aerobic and anareobic Gram-positive pathogens, including all antibiotic-resistant strains (e.g. MRSA and VRE); rapidly bactericidal, well-tolerated and efficacious in experimental models of infection. It can be developed for iv or topical use for several indications. Favorable toxicological profile. The compound is available for licensing.
