Former Mexican President to Chair ‘Light Against AMR Initiative’ to Accelerate Photodisinfection Adoption in High-Growth Regions

Ondine Biomedical Inc. (AIM: OBI), a global innovator in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (APDT, also known as photodisinfection), and the International Photodynamic Association (“IPA”) have launched a strategic initiative to accelerate the deployment of affordable, light-based infection control technologies in underserved, fast-growing and emerging markets.

The Light Against AMR Initiative will be led by former President of Mexico, Vicente Fox, who will serve as Chair. President Fox’s leadership marks a pivotal moment in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance (“AMR”), a mounting health and economic crisis. Widely recognized for expanding healthcare access during his presidency, including the landmark Seguro Popular program, he brings decades of experience in championing equitable healthcare.

Mr. Fox stated:

“Drug-resistant infections threaten lives and livelihoods across all nations. Photodisinfection is a proven, accessible solution that can protect millions, especially in regions where traditional antibiotics are failing.

“Ensuring affordable, life-saving care has been my lifelong mission. Photodisinfection is a practical, cost-effective tool that can break the AMR cycle. I am committed to making this technology available where it’s needed most.”

AMR is a growing crisis that transcends borders, driven by antibiotic misuse and inadequate infection control, particularly in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure. Photodisinfection, an innovative, resistance-proof approach that uses light-activated agents to eliminate pathogens, offers an immediate, scalable alternative to antibiotics.

Dr. Colin Hopper, President of the IPA, underscored the urgency:

“By 2050, AMR is projected to surpass cancer in mortality, claiming 10 million lives annually. President Fox’s leadership will be instrumental in deploying photodisinfection to regions on the frontline of this silent pandemic.”

Carolyn Cross, CEO of Ondine Biomedical, commented:

“This collaboration is a major milestone in our mission to establish photodisinfection as a global standard. Partnering with President Fox and the IPA accelerates our strategy to bring Ondine’s innovative, cost-effective solutions to high-growth regions, where the burden of AMR is most severe.”

The Light Against AMR Initiative builds on three decades of global APDT expertise and aims to unite researchers, healthcare systems, and policymakers to overcome access barriers. It will focus on combating multidrug-resistant pathogens such as multidrug-resistant pathogens such as E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterococcus species, delivering effective interventions at a fraction of the cost of new antibiotics.