Research and Development
Overview
Osel is the leading company in the development of next generation probiotics and a pioneer in the development of genetically modified vaginal Lactobacillus. Our business approach is based on recent scientific discoveries demonstrating the vital role of naturally occurring beneficial bacteria in the maintenance of health and the prevention of disease. Our mission is to harness the protective properties of these specialized non-pathogenic bacteria. This strategy has served as the basis for a series of innovative products initially targeted at prevention and treatment of diseases of the genitourinary and gastrointestinal tracts.
The mucous membranes of humans and animals are densely populated with commensal bacteria, which play an important role in host defense against pathogenic organisms. In the vaginal mucosa, for example, a deficiency of hydrogen peroxide-producing lactobacilli has been associated with an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infections, and sexually transmitted infections, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-I) and Herpes Simplex Virus-2 (HSV-2). A deficiency of vaginal lactobacilli has also been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Similarly, disruption of the protective gastrointestinal microflora can lead to diarrhea, intestinal infections and colitis, as exemplified by antibiotic-associated diarrhea and Clostridium difficile disease.
Osel’s technologies are focused on harnessing the mucosal microflora in two complementary ways. First, we identify the most appropriate naturally occurring bacteria to treat and prevent diseases caused by disruptions in the protective microflora. Second, we develop technologies to genetically enhance the capabilities of these bacteria to combat disease-causing organisms, represented by the MucoCept line of second-generation products.
MucoCept Technology
Osel is pursuing an innovative strategy to prevent the transmission of viral diseases in humans. This strategy is effected by our platform technology, known as MucoCept. The MucoCept approach involves the use of proprietary technology designed to harness the natural microbial flora and its associated biofilm on mucosal surfaces – the site of entry of most viruses – to neutralize viral particles before infection of the host cell can occur. This approach may be used to prevent infection by a number of viruses in humans, including HIV-I and HSV-2.