Sabiad, a startup in Heerenveen and a member of the LIFE Cooperative, part of the Open Diagnostics Ecosystem, is pleased to announce substantial investment support from Pharma Connect Capital (PCC). This funding will support the launch of their groundbreaking initiative, a collaborative project with the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG). The project aims to develop an antibody enabling the detection and imaging of Staphylococcus aureus infections, particularly challenging after orthopedic implantations such as hip and knee prosthetics.

Timely Detection

The bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, responsible for severe postoperative complications, exhibits symptoms often challenging to distinguish from normal immune reactions, resulting in late diagnoses and delayed treatments with potentially serious consequences for patients.

Using an antibody invented by Professor Jan Maarten van Dijl (microbiologist) at UMCG, rapid detection and visualization of the bacterium through bacterial imaging techniques can be achieved, allowing timely diagnosis and treatment. Sabiad also collaborates closely with Professor Paul Jutte (orthopedic surgeon), who will lead the initial clinical study.

Crucial investment

Jan Hendriks of Pharma Connect Capital explains, "Sabiad's initiative and UMCG's contribution align seamlessly with PCC's mission. We are excited to contribute to this next development phase emerging in Northern Netherlands. The prospects for patients through the new diagnostics being developed are promising."

Ton van den Hoven, Co-founder of Sabiad, adds, "The investment from PCC is crucial for us. Their knowledge and extensive network are invaluable for advancing early developments. Thanks to this funding, Sabiad can begin exploring the first patients in a research setting, allowing us to prepare for further clinical studies and product optimization for large-scale implementation."

Source text and image: Sabiad