Malvern-based Venatorx Pharmaceuticals was awarded a federal BioShield contract by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority that could net the antibiotics company up to $318 million, writes John George for the Philadelphia Business Journal. 

Venatorx will receive $72 million upfront and up to a total of $318 million in development funding for the development of cefepime-taniborbactam used in the treatment of bacterial infection melioidosis. 

The contract provides options for the government to procure this treatment from the company for national preparedness efforts. 

Venatorx CEO Christopher J. Burns said the company believes cefepime-taniborbactam “can play an important role in helping to enhance the biodefense preparedness of our country, save lives, and protect Americans.” 

He added that Venatorx is confident its treatment is well-positioned to assist in addressing potential public health emergencies. 

Read more about Venatorx Pharmaceuticals in the Philadelphia Business Journal.