A wound-healing product made from maggot secretions and a blood
test for Multiple Sclerosis - the first of its kind in the world
- are among the Welsh innovations to secure support from the
Welsh Government.
Economy Secretary, , today announced £900k
funding for 5 projects which promise to deliver real-life medical
benefits through cutting edge life sciences technology.
Bridgend-based Zoobiotic Limited are developing
products from larval secretions which speed the removal of dead
or infected skin tissue to help a wound heal.
Using a different approach, Corryn
Biotechnologies in Swansea are working on a handheld
medical device which can deposit a layer of microscopic polymer
fibres over a wound, creating a dressing using “electrospinning”
technology.
Today marks World MS Day [Thursday 30 May] and one of
the cutting-edge projects being announced is to develop T-Cell
tests, which are used in diagnostics and precision medicine.
Immunoserv's technology will be a
Cardiff-developed, clinically validated diagnostic blood test for
MS - the first of its kind worldwide.
Arcitebio Ltd in Aberystwyth has developed a
low-cost diabetic-friendly and tooth-friendly natural sweetener
using a biotechnological solution to produce xylitol from
biomass.
Finally, Copner Biotech in Ebbw Vale are
exploring using bioprinting technology to produce organ
replacements.
Known as SMART FIS, the programme is a new
approach to research and development. It is not restricted to
businesses and research organisations: it is open to any
organisation wishing to engage in research, development and
innovation, including the third sector, local authorities and
health boards.
For a new organisation this might mean accessing technology to
get a new idea off the ground. For a developing one, it could be
help with a project which has potential, and for an established
organisation it might be about specialist know-how to give an
international edge by opening-up new markets.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Welsh
Language, , said:
“We launched our Flexible Innovation Support (FIS) programme last
summer to help Welsh businesses and organisations improve
people's everyday lives by driving cutting-edge research and
innovation.
“We want to build a stronger and fairer nation with an economy
based on fair work, sustainability and sectors of the future –
this support programme provides a strong footing for this
ambition.
“As can be seen with these inspiring projects, Welsh companies
are developing world-changing ideas which could ultimately save
people's lives. Any kind of organisation is welcome to apply for
this support – please do see if yours could benefit too.”
Notes to editors
Notes
Flexible Innovation Support scheme - Flexible Innovation
Support | Innovation (gov.wales)
Both Immunoserv and Corryn Biotechnologies are happy to be
approached for interview. For their details, please contact
economypressteam@gov.wales
