Beiersdorf x Macro Biologics to develop antimicrobial peptides
Macro Biologics, Inc, which is based in California, develops large molecule biologics that can alleviate or improve skin issues and prevent wound infections
The collaboration between the German beauty and personal care business, which owns skin care brands like Nivea and Eucerin, and the biotech startup will focus on the “development of biodegradable antimicrobial peptides with broad application possibilities in the areas of skin care and healthcare.”
Beiersdorf has also invested in the startup company through its Oscar & Paul Corporate Venture Capital Unit.
The derma skin care manufacturer said that partnering with Macro Biologics’, which has advanced technology in antimicrobial research into the skin care and healthcare ecosystem, “further underlines its ambition to continuously deliver transformative and sustainable innovations to its consumers.”
The collaboration will be based around Macro Biologics’ efficacious antimicrobial “Amicidins” in Beiersdorf’s formulation development.
Amicidins are effective against a variety of bacteria. Although they are mainly designed for early, local application in the prevention of wound infections, they can also help to alleviate or improve skin conditions.
Amicidins can "improve the lives of people"
According to Beiersdorf, the joint objective of the partnership is to create highly effective, safe, and sustainable solutions for a variety of application areas across its brand portfolio, primarily in dermatological skin care and healthcare.
“Through our collaboration with Macro Biologics, we further enhance Beiersdorf’s innovation power in line with our ‘Win with Care’ strategy, as well as our ambition to continue to lead in Climate Care,” explained Dr Gitta Neufang, who is corporate SVP global R&D of Beiersdorf.
“We are excited to have found an outstanding partner in this promising field of antimicrobial peptides, who shares our visionary innovation drive. We are eager to jointly bring Macro Biologics’ advanced technology into the world of skin care and healthcare,” said Dr Neufang.
Meanwhile CEO and CSO of Macro Biologics Dr Michael Bevilacqua believed that this collaboration was “a perfect fit, both from a research and business perspective.”
Dr Bevilacqua said that Beiersdorf’s strong expertise in product formulation, development, and commercialisation “will empower Amicidins to improve the lives of people in a variety of settings.”
“This partnership is based on shared principles, as we both strive to create sustainable value for people and the environment,” he shared.
