Federico Iovino receives NovoNordisk Foundation grant to tackle antimicrobial resistance
KI researcher Federico Iovino has been awarded the Pioneer Innovator Grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation. Designed to fast-track the commercialisation of cutting-edge research in sustainability and health, the grant aims to support bold innovations that have real-world impact.
Federico Iovino has been awarded 1.2 million DKK (approximately 1.7 million SEK) to tackle antimicrobial resistance, focusing on the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, a leading cause of bacterial meningitis. His project entitled “Development of dual endolysins as next-generation treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections”, explores phage-derived endolysins, i.e. enzymes capable not only of eliminating antibiotic-resistant bacteria but also of neutralizing the toxins that damage the brain.
“Antimicrobial resistance could be the world’s top cause of death by 2050. Time is running out, and traditional antibiotics won’t be enough. Developing new treatments is critical if we’re to prevent a global health catastrophe,” says Federico Iovino, Associate Professor and research group leader at the Department of Neuroscience.
Brain infections present a unique challenge: even when bacteria are eradicated, neurons damaged during infection cannot be repaired, leaving survivors at risk of lifelong complications, from motor disabilities to cognitive impairment.
Federico Iovino’s work could open the door to therapies that not only fight infection but also protect the brain and preserve neurological functions.