Heerenveen-based Sabiad, a Dutch startup that offers solutions in the field of infection imaging, secures fresh funding from Pharma Connect Capital (PCC) for its project in collaboration with the University Medical Center Groningen. The amount has not been disclosed.
The project focuses on developing an antibody for detecting and imaging Staphylococcus aureus infections, particularly challenging post-orthopedic implantations like hip and knee prostheses.
Next-gen tracer for infection imaging
Founded in September 2022, Sabiad originated from research conducted at UMCG. The company’s mission is to enable early infection detection. Collaborating with UMCG, Sabiad is developing this technology with support from the Open Diagnostic Ecosystem subsidy.
Staphylococcus aureus, causing postoperative issues, poses challenges in timely diagnosis due to symptom similarities with normal immune reactions.
Professor Jan Maarten van Dijl’s antibody at UMCG allows rapid detection and visualisation through bacterial imaging, facilitating early diagnostics and treatment. Sabiad collaborates with Professor Paul Jutte for the first clinical study.
Ton van den Hoven, co-founder of Sabiad says, “PCC’s investment is crucial for us. Their knowledge and extensive network are invaluable for the progress of early developments.”
“Thanks to this funding, Sabiad can begin investigating the first patients in a research environment, allowing us to prepare for further clinical studies and product optimisation for large-scale implementation.”
Investors supporting Sabiad
Jan Hendriks from Pharma Connect Capital says, “Sabiad’s initiative and the contribution of UMCG align seamlessly with PCC’s mission.”
“We are delighted to contribute to this next development phase emerging in the Northern Netherlands. The prospects for patients through the newly developed diagnostics are promising,” adds Hendriks.
Pharma Connect Capital invests in startups in the Netherlands’ Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe regions. Their mission centers around developing new drugs, drug delivery technologies, biomarkers, or diagnostics within this region.
Brief about University Medical Center Groningen
The UMCG is one of the largest hospitals in the Netherlands and the largest employer in the Northern Netherlands. With over 12,000 employees, their collective focus on care, research, training, and education is dedicated to shaping the future of health.
UMCG says, “Our care is based on the latest insights. Safety and quality come first, naturally with an eye for the wishes of our patients. For the UMCG, care does not stop at the hospital walls. The UMCG therefore works closely with general practitioners, midwives, home care and numerous other healthcare institutions.”
UMCG trains around 3,400 students in medicine, dentistry, and sports science, with over 450 doctors pursuing specialisation.
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