103857Optimisation of Antibody Recruiting Molecules as ImmunotherapeuticsClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKAntibiotics have revolutionised healthcare but bacteria continually evolve to resist new medicines. The lack of new antibiotics combined with increasing incidence of resistance in the clinic has been termed ‘the perfect storm’ and there is an urgent need for new therapies. Our project will deliver a novel treatment for patients suffering from infections caused by resistant bacterial strains. Our 'Alphamer' drug mechanism elicits an immune response to the bacteria by coating the outside of the bug and attracting pre-existing antibodies present in everyone. These antibodies then mediate rapid and effective killing of bacteria. This approach will work immediately in patients already infected (unlike a traditional vaccine) and has the potential to elicit a broader immune response than a monoclonal antibody. With a distinct mechanism of action, the Alphamer will help clear the infection rapidly, work in conjunction with existing antibiotics to reduce the dose and duration of therapy and demonstrate efficacy against resistant strains.