Zero Candida Ltd (TSX-V:ZCT) is at the forefront of biotech innovation, addressing the growing need for effective solutions to combat fungal infections.
In this Q&A, CEO Eli Ben Haroosh discusses their strategic vision, the technology driving their mission, and the market potential of their advancements in Candida treatment.
Proactive: We're going to talk about your company securing a patent in South Africa. But before we dive into that, can you tell us a bit more about Zero Candida and the work you're doing?
Eli Ben Haroosh: Of course. Our team has been doing amazing work. We've had a PhD consultant working with us for over five years, helping us develop and secure patents like the one in South Africa, which we began working on in 2022. I'm thrilled to share that the patent has now been granted. This is fantastic news for our investors, our company, and everyone involved. We're also pursuing patents in the US, Europe, and Brazil to ensure comprehensive global protection for our technology.
Let's talk about the specifics of this patent. What exactly does it cover? Is it related to the design or the underlying technology?
The patent covers everything, from the shape and design of the Zero Candida device to the light pulses it uses to eliminate fungus with a 99.999% success rate. It also protects the AI-powered system that collects and transmits data to a doctor's computer securely and in compliance with HIPAA standards. This includes temperature, body pH, and other vital data collected during use. The patent ensures complete protection for the device, the intellectual property, and the entire process from development to application.
That's impressive. Could you explain how the device is used and what makes this technology unique?
Sure. Zero Candida provides a groundbreaking, non-drug solution for candida fungus in the vagina, delivering overnight treatment. Until now, there hasn't been a non-drug option that eliminates the fungus so effectively. The device is designed for women to use while sleeping. It collects critical health data, including temperature and pH, and sends it to a doctor's system using AI.
After treatment, the device is simply washed, recharged, and reused. This multi-use functionality, combined with AI integration, creates a seamless experience for patients and their doctors. It's truly a game-changer for women's health.
The patent is now secured in South Africa. Are you exploring applications in other regions as well?
Yes, absolutely. We've already applied for patents in the U.S., Europe, Israel, and Brazil. Our goal is to ensure that our technology and future distributors are fully protected as we bring this innovative device to market globally.
Finally, can you give us an update on your development timeline as we head into 2025?
We have ambitious plans for 2025. By the end of that year, we aim to complete our U.S. patent application and wrap up preclinical and clinical studies. We're also working toward finalizing the European patent and submitting the device for regulatory approval in Europe, where it will also be used for diagnostic purposes.
Our team, both inside and outside the company, is working tirelessly to achieve these goals. In addition, we'll participate in key events such as the Women's Health Canada clinical exposition and similar events in the US and Canada. It's shaping up to be a pivotal year for us.
Quotes have been lightly edited for style and clarity