Sabiad, a startup in Heerenveen, a member of the LIFE Cooperative, and part of the Open Diagnostics Ecosystem, recently received significant investment support from Pharma Connect Capital (PCC). This funding will support the launch of their groundbreaking initiative. The project, in collaboration with the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), aims to develop an antibody enabling the detection and imaging of Staphylococcus aureus infections—a significant challenge, particularly after orthopedic implantations such as hip and knee prosthetics.
Timely detectionThe bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, responsible for severe postoperative complications, exhibits symptoms often challenging to distinguish from normal immune reactions, resulting in late diagnoses and delayed treatments with potentially serious consequences for patients.
Using an antibody invented by Professor Jan Maarten van Dijl (microbiologist) at UMCG, rapid detection and visualization of the bacterium through bacterial imaging techniques can be achieved, allowing timely diagnosis and treatment. Sabiad also collaborates closely with Professor Paul Jutte (orthopedic surgeon), who will lead the initial clinical study.
Jan Hendriks of Pharma Connect Capital explains, "Sabiad's initiative and UMCG's contribution align seamlessly with PCC's mission. We are excited to contribute to this next development phase emerging in Northern Netherlands. The prospects for patients through the new diagnostics being developed are promising."
Ton van den Hoven, Co-founder of Sabiad, adds, "The investment from PCC is crucial for us. Their knowledge and extensive network are invaluable for advancing early developments. Thanks to this funding, Sabiad can begin exploring the first patients in a research setting, allowing us to prepare for further clinical studies and product optimization for large-scale implementation."
""The investment from Pharma Connect Capital is crucial for us. Their knowledge and extensive network are invaluable for advancing early developments""
Ton van den Hoven Co-founder of Sabiad
Who is developing the most impactful innovation in Life Sciences & Health in the Northern Netherlands? Five companies are in the running for the LIFE Science Innovation Award 2026: Flux Robotics, Limosa Immunodiagnostics, SPCTR, MimeCure and GlycanScan International. The nominees will present their innovations on Tuesday 22 September during the fifth edition of the LIFE Science Conference in Groningen. An independent jury will select the winner, who will receive a €10,000 cash prize.
ZonMw is expected to open the final call for proposals within the PharmaNL Shared Development Infrastructure (SDI) program line. This program line focuses on strengthening the infrastructure for the development, upscaling, and production of innovative medicines in the Netherlands.
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