MicroBioTx Ignites New Era in Korean Medicine with Landmark KRW 20 Billion Series B for Pioneering Bacteriophage Clinical Trial

MicroBioTx (MBT), a trailblazing South Korean biotech firm, has announced the successful closure of its Series B funding round, raising an impressive KRW 20 billion (approximately USD 14.5 million). This monumental achievement is not just about financial growth; it marks a pivotal moment in the nation's medical landscape, as the funds are earmarked to propel Korea's first-ever clinical trial for bacteriophage therapy.

The Series B round saw robust participation from a consortium of leading investors, including QUAD Investment Management, Smilegate Investment, Korea Investment Partners, InterVest, Shinhan Venture Investment, and NHN Investment.

Their collective confidence underscores the immense potential of MicroBioTx's innovative approach to combating the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

At the heart of MicroBioTx's groundbreaking work lies bacteriophage therapy – a revolutionary medical strategy that utilizes naturally occurring viruses, known as bacteriophages, to specifically target and destroy pathogenic bacteria.

Unlike conventional antibiotics, phages offer a highly precise attack mechanism, leaving beneficial bacteria unharmed and offering a beacon of hope in an era increasingly plagued by superbugs.

The forthcoming clinical trial, a historic first for Korea, will focus on tackling chronic respiratory diseases, particularly those caused by the formidable multidrug-resistant pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

This bacterium is a significant challenge in conditions like cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis, where its persistence leads to severe lung damage and reduced quality of life. The introduction of phage therapy could offer a desperately needed alternative for patients who have exhausted conventional treatment options.

Dr.

Hak-Sung Kim, CEO of MicroBioTx, expressed profound enthusiasm for this milestone: "Finalizing our Series B funding is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and the trust placed in us by our investors. More importantly, it empowers us to initiate Korea's inaugural bacteriophage clinical trial, a critical step in addressing the global crisis of antibiotic resistance.

We are committed to developing innovative solutions that offer new hope for patients battling life-threatening infections."

The global health community faces an escalating challenge from antimicrobial resistance (AMR), where common infections are becoming increasingly difficult, and sometimes impossible, to treat.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified AMR as one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity. MicroBioTx's pioneering work in phage therapy is therefore not just a national achievement, but a significant contribution to global efforts to circumvent this looming health crisis.

Looking ahead, MicroBioTx is poised for further expansion and innovation.

Beyond the upcoming clinical trial, the company plans to accelerate its research and development efforts, refine its drug discovery platform, and explore opportunities for global market penetration. This funding ensures MicroBioTx remains at the forefront of bacteriophage science, ready to deliver transformative medical solutions to patients worldwide.