Vedanta Biosciences, a clinical-stage company that was founded by PureTech Health plc (LSE: PRTC), has recorded positive early results from a study of its lead product candidate, VE303, for recurrent C. difficile infection, the company announced on Thursday.

The Phase 1a/1b clinical study in healthy adult volunteers showed that VE303 was safe and well-tolerated at all doses. It also demonstrated proof of mechanism, with rapid, abundant and durable intestinal colonisation of the VE303 strains.

Bernat Olle, co-founder and CEO of Vedanta Biosciences, commented: "The robust relationship between dose exposure and response we have observed informs a rational dose selection for VE303 Phase 2 studies and supports its potential as a first-in-class therapy for prevention of recurrent Clostridium difficile infection."

A Phase 2 study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VE303 in patients with recurrent C. difficile infection is planned to begin before the end of the year.

Three other programmes in immuno-oncology, allergy and inflammatory bowel disease are expected to enter the clinic within the next nine months.