Phagenesis, a UK-based company, just secured a $42M investment to further develop its groundbreaking neurostimulation system for treating swallowing problems. This investment, led by EQT Life Sciences and co-led by Sectoral, along with other new investors, highlights the potential of Phagenesis’ therapy, Phagenyx®.
The Phagenyx® system targets and restores the neurological aspects of swallowing affected by conditions like stroke or prolonged ventilator use. This condition, known as dysphagia, can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and increased healthcare costs.
With FDA approval in the US, the investment will mainly focus on expanding commercialization in the US and Europe, supporting clinical trials, regulatory activities, and further research and development.
Reinhard Krickl, CEO of Phagenesis, expressed gratitude for the investment, emphasizing the company’s commitment to helping millions of patients suffering from swallowing disorders. The goal is to enhance access to their therapy and support clinicians dedicated to patient care.
Drew Burdon from EQT Life Sciences highlighted the significant impact Phagenyx® can have on reducing hospital stays and healthcare costs, aligning with EQT’s strategy of delivering cost-effective healthcare solutions.
Michael Sjöström from Sectoral Asset Management praised Phagenyx® as an innovative solution that can change care paradigms by allowing early treatment of dysphagia, potentially preventing later complications.
Clinical trials have shown promising results, indicating faster patient recovery and reduced hospital stays.
As part of the investment, Drew Burdon, Michael Sjöström, and Mark Wyatt will join Phagenesis’ Board of Directors.
Recently, Phagenesis showcased its product and the latest US data at the International Stroke Conference in Phoenix, Arizona.
Of the many #innovative companies that are based at Manchester Science Park, today we wanted to spotlight @Phagenesis. Their mission is to transform the lives of people with dysphagia, using revolutionary treatments. Find out more here: https://t.co/IVItvZcrqt pic.twitter.com/btf0HKrsYM
— Oxford Road Manchester (@OxRdMcr) January 11, 2021
Phagenesis Idea Review
Welcome to “Idea Review” – a special segment by the Lion Herald team aimed at sparking discussions and fostering understanding about the core principles behind innovation and digital companies. Here, we dive deep into the essence of groundbreaking ideas, offering our opinions and thoughts on the matter. It’s important to note that the views expressed here are our own and may not necessarily reflect those of the companies we discuss. Join us as we explore the driving forces behind innovation and digital transformation.
THE PROBLEM
Phagenesis addresses the problem of swallowing dysfunction, also known as dysphagia, which commonly occurs as a result of brain injuries such as strokes. Dysphagia makes it difficult for individuals to swallow food, liquids, and manage saliva effectively. This condition can lead to various complications, including malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and even death in severe cases. By developing a neurostimulation system, Phagenesis aims to target and restore the neurological components of swallowing coordination that are disrupted due to brain injuries, thereby improving swallowing function and overall quality of life for affected individuals. In essence, Phagenesis’ solution seeks to alleviate the challenges associated with dysphagia, enabling patients to eat, drink, and manage their saliva safely and effectively.
THE SOLUTION
Phagenesis provides a neurostimulation system called Phagenyx® to address swallowing dysfunction, particularly common after brain injuries such as strokes. This system targets and restores the neurological components of swallowing coordination that may be disrupted due to brain injuries.
Phagenyx® works by delivering pharyngeal electrical stimulation (PES) to the patient. This stimulation helps to retrain the neural pathways involved in swallowing, promoting improved coordination and function. By restoring proper swallowing function, Phagenyx® aims to alleviate the symptoms of dysphagia, enabling patients to eat, drink, and manage saliva more safely and effectively.
THE TARGET
After exploring the idea behind Phagenesis, I believe that the targeted audience for Phagenesis’ neurostimulation system, Phagenyx®, includes:
Patients with Dysphagia: Individuals who suffer from swallowing dysfunction, particularly as a result of brain injuries such as strokes, are the primary target audience. Phagenyx® aims to provide these patients with an effective treatment option to improve their swallowing function and overall quality of life.
Healthcare Professionals: This includes speech-language pathologists, neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, and other healthcare professionals involved in the diagnosis and treatment of dysphagia. Phagenesis’ solution may be of interest to these professionals as a novel approach to managing swallowing dysfunction in their patients.
Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and healthcare facilities where patients with dysphagia receive treatment are also part of the targeted audience. Phagenyx® may offer these institutions an innovative solution to enhance patient care and outcomes in the management of dysphagia.
Investors and Stakeholders: Investors, venture capitalists, and stakeholders interested in healthcare innovation and medical technology may also be part of the targeted audience. Phagenesis’ advancements in treating dysphagia could be of interest to those seeking investment opportunities in the healthcare sector.