YC startup Felix plans to replace antibiotics with programmable viruses

Amidst dely coronavirus outbreak, anor microscopic organism could threaten humanity. According to reports, antibiotic-resistant bacteria killed more than 7,00,000 people last year, whereas 35,000 in United States alone. If nothing is done to combat m, n number could grow to 10 million annually by year 2050. But a YC Startup can combat this problem using programable viruses.

Virus vs bacteria

As per reports, antibiotic overuse by doctors and farmers h led to this problem. medication used killed off most of harmful bacteria, but not all.  Felix, a biotech startup has come up with a way to deal with this problem, through use of viruses. Felix’s key technology allows programming of virus to target specific bacteria. This kills b bacteria and also halts its ability to evolve and become drug-resistant.

While idea may seem unique it is not new. Bacteriophages, or viruses that can “infect” bacteria, were first discovered by an English researcher in 1915. Commercialized use of viruses to kill bacteria in patients began in United States in 1940s through Eli Lilly and Company. But after anti-biotics me ir appearance, Western Scientists dropped idea of using viruses and did not do any more research into it.

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Robert McBride, co-founder of Felix believes that his company can bring concept of employing bio-engineered viruses to combat drug-resistant bacteria to forefront. According to reports, McBride believes that his company can develop rapies in less time and for less money than tritional antibiotics.

Felix plans on deploying its treatment for bacterial infections in those suffering from cystic fibrosis first, this is because patients suffering from m require an almost constant stream of antibiotics to combat lung infections. As per reports, next step for Felix and its groundbreaking research is to conduct a small clinical trial involving 30 people and n a larger human trial, after which y will seek FDA approval.

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