Research on the diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities of these ecosystems of microorganisms makes the leap from the laboratory to the market, ABC Economy reports (link in Spanish). The results of the most advanced clinical trials to obtain the first drugs from the human microbiota have aroused great interest beyond the laboratory. Several biotech companies dedicated to developing technology and products based on this new discipline are beginning to establish alliances with large firms. For example, Nestlé Health Sciences has injected more than 500 million dollars into a biotech company called Seres Therapeutics to commercialize what could be the first drug based on the microbiome (to combat a recurrent intestinal infection caused by the bacteria Clostridium difficile). The Swiss multinational is also working with the French startup Enterome in order to achieve another product of this type with which to treat food allergies and intestinal diseases. And the biopharmaceutical company Ferring Pharmaceuticals has acquired Rebiotix, which is also pursuing the first drug from human bacteria against Clostridium difficile infection.
Willum Þór: The question remains if our healthcare system is sustainable
On January 1st, Iceland took over the Presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers. This intergovernmental organisation plays an important role in promoting innovations, health data integration, and cooperation between all major stakeholders in the Nordic healthcare. The Icelandic Health Minister elaborates on his vision to future health in the Nordic region, the Nordic strengths, Iceland’s plans for the Presidency with regards to health innovations, and the coming collaboration with Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies