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A first-in-class therapy for intestinal malabsorption in premature newborns

Project description

A breakthrough in preterm infant care

Around 10 % of babies are born prematurely, and preterm birth remains the leading cause of newborn deaths. These infants often face underdeveloped gastrointestinal tracts, leading to intestinal malabsorption. For their critical early development, central line nutrition is used until their gastrointestinal tract can absorb sufficient nutrition. However, this method has limitations and life-threatening risks. In this context, the EIC-funded ELGN-GI project introduces the first drug to stimulate gut maturation, enabling a rapid transition to oral nutrition. Demonstrating its safety and efficacy, ELGN-GI has reduced the dependence on parenteral nutrition by 4 days and shortened hospitalisation periods by 7 days. It also contributed to a 40 % reduction in life-threatening infections.

Objective

Around 10% babies are born preterm, and premature birth is the 1st cause of new-born deaths. Preterm infants are born with an underdeveloped gastrointestinal (GI) tract, causing intestinal malabsorption. At the first weeks of life, adequate nutrition is critical for brain and vital organ development, so infants are placed on central line nutrition until their GI is capable of absorbing sufficient nutrition. However, central line nutrition is inadequate for critical growth and poses life-threatening risks. Thus, a fast transition to oral independence is the goal for improving outcomes.
ELGN-GI is the first drug for stimulating gut maturation for rapid transition to oral nutrition. It is safe and demonstrated to reduce 4 days dependent on Parenteral Nutrition, ~7 days in high-level NICU, ~7 days in hospitalization period, and to contribute to 40% reduction of life-threatening infections and Necrotizing Enterocolitis.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Coordinator

ELGAN PHARMA LTD.
Net EU contribution
€ 2 359 000,00
Address
WADI EL HAJ 13
17111 NAZARETH
Israel

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SME

The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.

Yes
Activity type
Private for-profit entities (excluding Higher or Secondary Education Establishments)
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Total cost
€ 3 370 000,00