A Boost for the Immune System: Biologics for Animals Reduce Need for Antibiotics

Three investors have joined the startup 4 Animals AlsterScience GmbH. Innovationsstarter Fonds from Hamburg, a Business Angel from the far north and High-Tech Gründerfonds from Bonn are investing in development of biologic drugs and feed supplements for animals that improve immune function.

“Our development work focuses on drugs and treatments for pets – but also livestock – that strengthen natural immune systems in animals. Good and effective natural drugs are urgently needed. A healthy immune system protects from infections, ideally makes antibiotics unnecessary and is the prerequisite for overcoming diseases and consequently for healthy animals. Supporting the immune system through innovative natural mechanisms leads to safe and effective treatments that are well tolerated.” Prof. Dr. Dr. Edith Huland and Conny Cloppenburg, Managing Directors of 4 Animals AlsterScience GmbH, explained.

Drug products from 4 Animals AlsterScience GmbH have already been used successfully for viral diseases, tumors, inoculations and cell therapies and can help break the vicious cycle of resistance to conventional drugs.

Use of natural mechanisms to strengthen the immune system specifically of animals is an innovative and promising approach. In 2008, the market for animal drug products was valued at US $ 19.2 billion worldwide (Wikipedia) and approx. EUR 660 in Germany. Immunological and anti- infective drugs accounted for a large share of sales. 4 Animals AlsterScience GmbH is setting important new standards in this market for the well-being of animals and humans.

“The veterinary market is a very attractive and often underestimated business sector. With fairly manageable investments and short communication channels, treatments from 4 Animals AlterScience GmbH can find use here“ Dr. Michael Brandkamp, Managing Director of High-Tech Gründerfonds, said with enthusiasm.

Equally enthusiastic is Dörte Bunge of Innovationsstarter Fonds Hamburg: “The wide scope of applications in pets and livestock as well as the positive preliminary results observed in severe virus infections in horses convinced us in our investment decision. We look forward to supporting the experienced team in building a successful company.”