Innovative Partnership Targets Breakthrough Oral Thrush Treatment with Advanced Bio-Adhesive Technology

Three prominent organizations in healthcare and medical research have joined forces to develop a potentially transformative therapeutic platform for oral health, focusing on an innovative treatment for oral thrush that promises to significantly improve patient outcomes.

Shear Kershman Laboratories, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, and Innovative MedTech Inc. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on developing BioViscid™, a groundbreaking bio-adhesive drug delivery technology specifically targeting oral candidiasis, commonly known as oral thrush.

The collaborative effort addresses a significant healthcare challenge, as oral thrush affects approximately 5-7% of Americans, particularly vulnerable populations such as individuals with weakened immune systems, infants, elderly patients, and those using certain medications that disrupt microbial balance.

BioViscid™ represents a substantial advancement in treatment methodology. Unlike current treatments like fluconazole or amphotericin B, which are typically administered systemically, this new formulation adheres directly to mucosal tissues, avoiding first-pass metabolism and providing sustained drug release over 6-8 hours post-application.

The technology's unique amphipathic molecular structure and bio-adhesive encapsulation enable it to maintain effectiveness even in high-moisture environments, including during eating and drinking, while demonstrating no adverse reactions to skin or mucosal tissues.

Dr. Blake Hawley from Shear Kershman Labs emphasized the innovation's potential, stating that BioViscid™ ensures sustained contact with affected areas, dramatically improving therapeutic outcomes and patient convenience.

The global market for oral candidiasis treatments is estimated at $4-6 billion, with expectations of growth driven by an aging population and increasing awareness of treatment options. This collaboration positions the partners to potentially revolutionize the oral healthcare landscape.

Beyond developing BioViscid™, the partnership aims to advance medical education, conduct collaborative research, and create innovative solutions that can improve patient care, particularly in underserved communities.

Dr. Lily T. Garcia, Dean of Texas A&M College of Dentistry, highlighted the partnership's broader significance, noting that it exemplifies the transformative potential of collaboration between academia and industry, demonstrating how scientific innovation can directly enhance patient care.

As the healthcare industry continues to seek more targeted and efficient treatment methods, this collaborative effort represents a promising step toward more personalized and effective medical interventions.