BioMed X partners with Novo Nordisk to tackle oral peptide delivery challenges
German research institute BioMed X has announced a collaboration with Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk to develop innovative oral formulation technologies for peptide drugs, including GLP-1 receptor agonists. The partnership aims to overcome critical barriers in oral peptide bioavailability through novel retention mechanisms in the lower small intestine. BioMed X, the independent biomedical research institute based in Heidelberg, has launched a strategic collaboration with Novo Nordisk to address one of pharmaceutical development’s most persistent challenges: efficient oral delivery of therapeutic peptides.
The partnership centres on a research project titled “Prolonged Retention of Oral Peptide Formulations in the Gut”. This initiative will establish a dedicated research team at BioMed X’s Heidelberg facility, focusing on developing novel oral formulation technologies that achieve site-specific, prolonged retention of tablets or capsules within the lower small intestine.
Addressing fundamental bio-availability constraints
Current oral peptide formulations face significant limitations due to low intestinal permeability and rapid gastrointestinal transit times. These factors severely compromise the absorption and bioavailability of peptide-based therapeutics, presenting ongoing challenges for patient compliance and therapeutic efficacy.
The research team will work to develop technologies ensuring prolonged retention of dosage forms in the lower small intestine, facilitating continuous release and efficient absorption whilst maintaining gastrointestinal safety and preventing obstruction.
Global talent sourcing approach
BioMed X’s distinctive crowdsourcing model will drive the collaboration, with researchers worldwide invited to submit project proposals through the institute’s Career Space platform. Applications must be submitted before 12 October 2025, with successful candidates joining the Heidelberg research community. Apply here: https://career.bmedx.com/call/2025-BMX-C02
“We are excited about this new partnership with Novo Nordisk,” said Dr Christian Tidona, CEO of BioMed X. “Making peptide drugs such as GLP-1 receptor agonists orally available via new formulation technologies will have a significant impact on patients’ lives.”
Building on established expertise
Novo Nordisk brings considerable experience to the collaboration, having developed the first and only oral biologic currently available on the market. Stephen Buckley, Scientific Vice President at Novo Nordisk, emphasised the company’s commitment to pushing scientific boundaries through both internal and external innovation partnerships.
Research institute expansion
BioMed X operates across multiple locations, including sites in Heidelberg, New Haven, Connecticut, and XSeed Labs in Ridgefield, Connecticut, alongside a worldwide network of partner locations. The institute specialises in translational biomedical research spanning oncology, immunology, neuroscience, platform technologies, and artificial intelligence.
The collaboration represents a significant investment in addressing oral peptide delivery challenges, with implications extending beyond GLP-1 receptor agonists to broader therapeutic peptide applications.
