Insights from the BioInfect Conference: Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance with Innovation and Collaboration

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27 Feb 2025

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) remains one of the biggest global health threats, and the recent BioInfect Conference shed light on the latest advancements and challenges in the fight against drug-resistant infections. With a strong presence of industry leaders, researchers, and biotech innovators, the conference emphasized the urgency of shifting towards precision medicine, fostering collaboration, and securing sustainable funding for AMR solutions.

The growing threat of AMR – and why we need a new approach
 
One of the most critical discussions at BioInfect was the need to move away from empirical diagnosis – where antibiotics are prescribed before identifying the actual pathogen – toward more precise and targeted treatments. This shift requires significant advancements in diagnostics, including in-vitro and companion diagnostics, to ensure patients receive the right drug at the right time. The UK, particularly the Northwest, is leading the charge with cutting-edge research, world-class facilities, and top-tier scientific talent.
 
The economic impact: Why recognition matters

AMR’s financial burden is often underestimated, making it difficult to secure the necessary funding for research and drug development. One compelling suggestion from the conference was to officially list AMR as a cause of death, on death certificates. This would highlight the true impact of AMR and drive policy changes and investment in solutions.

Scientific innovations pushing AMR research forward

Several scientific innovations were highlighted, including:
  • Organic chemistry techniques to identify drugs similar to natural antibiotics, reimagined by chemists.
  • Inorganic chemistry approaches, such as creating heavy metal chelates and using inorganic compounds to generate immune responses against AMR.
  • 2D models for non-clinical testing of antimicrobial drugs, such as developing a 'skin-on-a-chip' to replicate human skin physiology for drug testing.

​Challenges in AMR Biotech and development

The AMR field faces significant challenges, particularly in talent retention. The instability of AMR-focused biotech companies, coupled with high failure rates and funding constraints, is pushing professionals toward more stable fields like oncology and immunology. To address this, companies must adopt a global mindset – exploring international markets, forming strategic partnerships, and leveraging global clinical trial opportunities.
 
Collaboration between industry and academia

A recurring theme at BioInfect was the critical role of industry-academic collaborations in de-risking research and maximizing resources. Encouraging transparency, data sharing, and even publishing negative results can prevent redundant research efforts and drive more meaningful progress.
 
Expert insights from keynote speakers
 
Two speakers shared their insights:
  • Lloyd Payne underscored the importance of surrounding oneself with experienced professionals and leveraging expert advisory services.
  • Erin Duffy (CARB-X) highlighted the need for strong clinical and regulatory strategies to attract investors and drive innovation forward.

​The importance of non-dilutive funding

For biotech startups, securing non-dilutive funding (grants and government support) is a game-changer. Investors view this type of funding as an external validation of a company’s science and team, making grant-writing skills an essential asset for securing resources.
 
Strategic planning for success
 
Biotech companies should always start with the end in mind, considering their market and how they will access patients and sell their drugs. Investors are looking for well-defined target product profiles and a strategic roadmap for commercialization.
 
How Morula Health can help

We’re committed to helping biotech companies navigate the complexities of AMR research and drug development. Our expertise includes:
  • Grant writing: We collaborate with scientists to craft compelling, high-quality grant applications that secure funding
  • Target product profiles & clinical development plans: Our team assists in designing protocol synopses and full protocols to align with clinical and regulatory strategies
  • Clinical study reports: We handle everything from study report writing to publishing in top-tier scientific journals
  • AMR & infectious disease expertise: Our medical writers have deep industry knowledge and a passion for combating infectious diseases, helping biotech innovators make a lasting impact
​Final thoughts: The path forward in AMR innovation
 
The BioInfect Conference reinforced that tackling AMR requires a multi-pronged approach—scientific breakthroughs, strong industry-academic partnerships, strategic funding, and a global perspective. By fostering collaboration and prioritizing precision medicine, we can accelerate progress in this critical field.
 
At Morula Health, we stand ready to support biotech companies in making meaningful advancements in AMR. If you're working on the next breakthrough in infectious disease treatment, get in touch with our team today!