Immunartes takes two approaches to preventing hard-to-fight staph infections
Immunartes is developing two ways to prevent Staphylococcus aureus infections: a vaccine designed for lasting immunity and an antibody intended for periods of acute risk. The Chicago biotechnology company describes both programs as preclinical. The distinction matters because a planned operation and a need for population-wide protection present different prevention timelines.
Two timelines for prevention
Staph bacteria can live on the skin without causing illness, but they can also cause serious infections. Some strains are resistant to antibiotics, making prevention an important research goal.
Immunartes is studying how to neutralize a mechanism the bacterium uses to evade the immune system. Its vaccine is designed to prompt the body to make its own antibodies over time.
The antibody program instead aims to supply protection directly, particularly around surgery and in other high-risk hospital settings. If the approach succeeds, it could address situations where there is not enough time to build immunity through vaccination.
Backing the research
The two programs have attracted different forms of development support. In January 2025, CARB-X announced a $729,000 award for Immunartes’ antibody research. The announcement was an award commitment, not a statement that the entire amount had been paid.