Canadian life sciences company Ondine Biomedical Inc (LSE: OBI) reported on Wednesday that a pilot study evaluating its nasal photodisinfection therapy in an intensive care unit setting has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Critical Care.

The study, titled "Suppression of Microbial Burden to Reduce Pneumonia in Critical Illness: the SMURF Feasibility Pilot Study," was conducted by the Advancing Innovation in Medicine research team at Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation, with support from clinical staff at Royal Columbian Hospital. It represents the first clinical evaluation of nasal photodisinfection in critically ill patients.

These findings extend the application of the company's technology beyond surgical settings and contribute to evidence supporting non-antibiotic approaches to reducing microbial burden in high-risk populations. The research addresses ongoing challenges in healthcare, including antibiotic resistance and the impact of healthcare-associated infections on ICU capacity and resource utilisation.

Ondine said the study explores the potential for early intervention to reduce infection risk, which could improve patient outcomes and support more efficient use of critical care resources. Full clinical and economic results are expected following online publication.

The company develops light-activated antimicrobial therapies and markets its Steriwave nasal photodisinfection system in multiple regions, with ongoing clinical trials in the US aimed at regulatory approval.