Burdica looking for GBP2M for biocompatible polymer products

Investment Opportunity

Burdica Biomed Ltd is looking to raise GBP2 million to commercialise its technology for manufacturing the naturally occurring biocompatible polymer hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic acid is already in use in bio-gels, eye and knee products and in cosmetic applications where it is injected to reduce wrinkles and plump-up lips. The Edinburgh-based company says it has developed manufacturing technologies that enable it to produce very high purity acid for use in a range of products.

Hyaluronic acid is distributed widely in the body in connective, epithelial and neural tissues, comprising around 0.02 percent of the body by weight. It is a gel-like, water holding molecule that is non-toxic, non-immunogenic and biodegradable. It is one of the main lubricating components of the synovial fluid in joints and in the skin it contributes significantly to cell proliferation and migration. Furthermore, hyaluronic acid is integral to skin health, being involved in tissue repair, absorbing and degrading damaging free radicals.

Burdica says its processing technologies enable it to produce a very pure form without using the acids and bases traditionally employed by other manufacturers.

Kevin Burd, Executive Director and co-founder of Burdica said, “Burdica is a compelling investment proposition thanks to our short term revenue prospects and our differentiated hyaluronic acid, which has unique advantages in terms of biocompatibility and longevity.

“We aim to gain swift market entry through strategic distribution and license agreements and we have already had promising discussions with key international players in the UK, Europe, the US and China. The new funding will enable us to fully exploit our cross-linking expertise and accelerate the development of nanotechnology for the production of second generation products.”