Technology to protect mucosal membranes from pathogens such as pollen, viruses and bacterium was presented at this year’s Bio-Europe conference in Dusseldorf by Polyrizon, one of three Israeli companies presenting.
The company is currently raising about $2 million in order to undertake a clinical study for its first product, a novel biological-gel for the treatment of ragweed nasal allergy. Founded by Tomer Izraeli in 2006, Polyrizon has completed several successful pre-clinical studies for its novel C&C (capture and contain) platform technology.
The company is seeking FDA approval of the ragweed product as a combination biological-device and European regulatory approval as a Medical Device class II or III.
The allergy products comprise a polymer that connects to the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity and prevents the penetration of allergens.
The therapy aims to solve the unmet medical need for a preventive therapy for allergies. The current allergic rhinitis therapies market is valued at more than $6 billion.
Izraeli, a chemical engineering graduate from Ben-Gurion University, founded the company in 2006 and has raised $1 million to date. Other key personnel are Dr. Yana Khrapunsky, Project Manager and Dr. Muriel Zohar, Active Chairwoman of the Board, a former exec at Ofer Hi Tech. The company is a recent graduate of the Ofakim business incubator.