The US Navy has signed an agreement with Maxwell Biosciences to conduct in vitro testing of a peptidomimetic drug to decrease diarrhea in warfighters.
The research will focus on the illness’ treatment and prevention using the company’s proprietary Claromers solution, which consists of synthetic oligomer molecules that mimic the human body’s “primary line of innate immune defense against rapidly evolving viruses.”
Data from this study will be used to support the US military in sustaining its operational readiness and combating the “most pervasive infectious threat” to troops.
Potential fielding of the medication will offer an additional option for afflicted patients, as traditional treatments for diarrhea-related cases, such as antibiotics, tend to be ineffective due to the increase in drug-resistant bacterial strains.
Diarrhea in the Military
According to the Texas-based biotech firm, a single episode of diarrhea can affect the performance of a soldier for days, potentially compromising their unit’s collective function and overall mission success.
About 80 percent of these conditions require commonly used antibiotics or IV fluids. During post-infection, some patients are diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome or reactive arthritis, which further “degrade long-term readiness.”
In Operation Iraqi Freedom, it was reported that approximately 76 servicemen experienced diarrheal episodes.
Currently, diarrhea is among the top non-combat medical concerns in soldiers, with the number of cases already more than respiratory illnesses and injuries.
Medical Support for Soldiers
In Maxwell Biosciences’ announcement, founder and CEO Scotch McClure highlighted the significance of the Claromers trials for the health of the nation’s fighters.
“This partnership isn’t just about stopping pathogens; it’s about keeping our forces mission-ready and preventing critical situations from going down the drain,” McClure said.
“With Claromers, we’re determined to flush out antibiotic resistance and ensure troops aren’t bogged down by debilitating illnesses.”
