BioDiem, Griffith Uni team for BDM-1 research

BioDiem (ASX:BDM) has formed a research partnership with Griffith University aimed at improving the solubility and effectiveness of antimicrobial compound BDM-1.

BioDiem and researchers from the university's Institute of Glycomics will conduct research into expanding the range of variants of the compound to create more soluble versions.

The project will be led by the institute's director and research leader professor Mark von Itzstein, who led the research group behind the development of flu drug Relenza.

BDM-I is a synthetic compound with applications in treating a range of serious human infections. Potential initial targets include bacterial infections, malaria, antibody-resistant infections, common STDs and tuberculosis.

Improving the compound's solubility would potentially allow it to be delivered via methods beyond injections, including topical creams or sprays and inhalants.

BioDiem CEO Julie Phillips said creating variants of the compound with improved solubility would make BDM-I more attractive to potential licensees.

BioDiem is involved in a number of other collaborative research projects. These include partnerships with VIVALIS to use BioDiem's proprietary influenza virus LAIV to create a new viral vector, and with RMIT to develop the LAIV platform for indications beyond influenza.

In further deals with Australian universities, the company has this year also in-licensed vaccine technology for hepatitis B and D from the University of Canberra, and for dengue fever from the Australian National University.

BioDiem (ASX:BDM) shares were trading unchanged at 4.7c as of 2pm on Friday.