SolasCure demonstrates proof-of-concept in trial of new maggot-derived wound gel
The hydrogel contains tarumase (provisional INN), a recombinant enzyme derived from maggots, and aims to accelerate wound debridement and contribute to wound bed preparation and healing.
The study observed a strong safety profile for the product, with no evidence of systemic availability, no antibody generation to the enzyme and no effects on systemic coagulation pathways.
In addition, no local tolerability issues, such as erythema, oedema, induration, or bleeding were observed, and no pain from application occurred.
Rob Kirsner, head of medical advisory board at SolasCure, commented: “SolasCure’s Aurase Wound Gel is an innovative technology, harnessing an enzyme cloned from medical maggots to accelerate wound cleaning, and therefore healing. We have a shared vision to deliver a meaningful solution for patients with chronic wounds, and the positive data observed in the phase 2a trial brings us another step closer.”
Moving forward, the gel is due to enter additional phase 2 trials to further evaluate its efficacy across a larger and more diverse patient group.
In addition, the positive safety data obtained from the phase 2a trial allows for higher concentrations of the gel to be explored.
Chronic wounds are a huge unmet medical need with treatment costs accounting for approximately 1-3% of total healthcare expenditure in developed countries.
With over 40 million chronic wounds requiring debridement each year globally, the need for better debridement, wound bed preparation and healing is a growing problem.
As the company moves forwards further clinical trials, SolasCure has now strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Andy Weymann as chairman of the board.
“I am delighted to join the SolasCure team, especially at such an exciting phase of growth. The positive safety and proof-of-concept data from the phase 2a trial represents a huge milestone for the company, accelerating its mission to provide a disruptive wound care product that could significantly improve outcomes for patients with chronic wounds globally. I look forward to working alongside the team as we now focus on developing the efficacy of Aurase Wound Gel in subsequent phase 2 trials, Weymann said.
The news comes after SolasCure was recently selected for the EIC Accelerator Horizon grant, which recognises the potential impact its technology could have on the lives of patients suffering from chronic wounds.
