First-in-class small molecule therapeutics for myeloid leukemias
In AML-WASp, Bimini Biotech BV is joining forces with world-class academic partners to fast-track the development of its breakthrough leukemia therapies. These collaborations blend scientific excellence with real-world drug development and are designed to spark a growing network of future partnerships that will amplify the project’s reach and impact.
Acute myeloid leukemia is one of the most dangerous blood cancers. In Europe alone, more than 20,000 people are diagnosed each year, and many do not survive long after diagnosis. Even with today’s treatments, only about 35–45% of patients under 60 live beyond five years, and for patients over 60—who represent the majority—the survival rate drops to around 10–20%. Current treatments are intensive, often poorly tolerated, and have changed little in decades, leaving patients and doctors with few effective options when the disease returns. This creates a strong medical, societal, and economic need for better, more durable treatments.
This project takes a new approach by targeting Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome Protein (WASp) inside leukemia cells that is a novel target for myeloid leukemias. Bimini has discovered small molecules that activate this protein, pushing leukemia cells into self-destruction while largely sparing healthy blood cells. Together with academic partners, the project will improve these compounds, test them in advanced disease models, and identify biological signals that can help predict which patients are most likely to benefit.
By the end of the project, the partnership between Bimini, IOR Switzerland and Central University of Punjab, India will deliver optimized drug candidates, strong proof that they work in relevant disease models, and clear markers to guide future clinical studies. These results will prepare the therapy for human trials and create a strong foundation for continued innovation and new partnerships in leukemia treatment.
