UK-based Destiny Pharma Plc is stepping up the pace of development for its lead antibacterial XF-73 with the start of a 200-patient Phase 2b study in April. The topical treatment is being investigated for the prevention of post-surgical staphylococcal infections including methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a major public health threat. XF-73 is administered as a nasal gel where it has been shown to reduce the nasal carriage of the S. aureus bacteria.
