ABOUT OCKHAM BIOTECH LIMITED

Founded in 2006 by Professor Janis Kay Shute and Andy Short, Ockham Biotech is a medical research company. We are currently developing a novel form of heparin codenamed OCK4, which lacks the anticoagulant effects of heparin itself, but retains a host of properties useful for various respiratory conditions.

We are focussed on the use of this compound for bronchiectasis and cystic fibrosis (CF) and, in addition, for the potential use of OCK4 in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). OCK4 is designed to be administered by a hand-held nebuliser, for patient convenience.

Our work is based on the mucolytic properties of inhaled heparin that were discovered by Professor Janis Shute along with its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties provide a means to improve airway mucus clearance, to improve the delivery of other inhaled drugs to mucus-congested airways and to protect in conditions liable to bacterial infection, and/or involving chronic inflammatory and fibrotic changes. Such conditions include CF, bronchiectasis and COPD.

The company has patent protection for the nebulised administration of OCK4.

In memory

In memory of Professor Janis Kay Shute,
Co-Founder of Ockham Biotech Limited.