Researching the Future of Fungal Infection Treatment

A landmark collaboration between Oz Medicann Group and Macquarie University is advancing the development of next-generation natural therapies for persistent and systemic fungal infections.

Exclusive global licence.
World-class research.
A new approach to a growing global health challenge.

Why Fungal Infections Matter

Fungal infections are often underestimated, yet they represent a growing global healthcare burden.

Millions of people worldwide experience fungal infections each year, ranging from chronic skin and nail infections through to serious systemic infections affecting vulnerable and immunocompromised patients.

The challenge is increasing due to:

  • Rising antifungal resistance
  • Recurrent and persistent infections
  • Long treatment durations
  • Poor treatment adherence
  • Limited innovation in antifungal therapeutics

For many patients, existing treatment options may not provide the outcomes they need.

The Growing Need for New Solutions

Current antifungal therapies have played an important role in treating fungal disease. However, significant challenges remain.

Resistance is Increasing

Many fungal pathogens are developing resistance to conventional therapies, reducing treatment effectiveness.

Persistent Infections Remain Common

Recurrent fungal infections can negatively impact quality of life and place an ongoing burden on healthcare systems.

Treatment Can Be Prolonged

Patients often require extended treatment courses, increasing the risk of non-adherence and recurrence.

Systemic Fungal Disease Can Be Serious

For immunocompromised individuals, systemic fungal infections can become complex, difficult to treat and potentially life-threatening.

These challenges highlight the need for innovative therapeutic approaches supported by robust scientific evidence.

A New Research Collaboration

Oz Medicann Group and Macquarie University

In May 2026, Oz Medicann Group signed an exclusive global intellectual property licence agreement with Macquarie University focused on the development of innovative natural medicine therapies targeting persistent and systemic fungal infections. 

The collaboration combines:

  • Macquarie University’s internationally recognised research capabilities
  • OMG’s expertise in clinical development and commercialisation
  • Future regulatory and clinical development pathways
  • International market access through strategic partnerships

The goal is simple:

Translate promising scientific discoveries into clinically validated therapies that can improve patient outcomes.

The Science Behind the Program

The licensed technology focuses on naturally derived compounds and formulations demonstrating antifungal activity against persistent fungal infections and broader systemic fungal conditions. 

Research efforts will focus on:

Novel Natural Compounds

Exploring the therapeutic potential of naturally derived antifungal agents.

Advanced Formulation Science

Developing delivery systems designed to optimise efficacy and patient use.

Clinical Validation

Generating evidence through future clinical studies.

Regulatory Development

Supporting progression through appropriate regulatory pathways.

Meet the Research Team

Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Enterprise) · Macquarie University

Professor Dan Johnson

“Macquarie University is committed to partnering with industry to translate promising scientific discoveries into meaningful healthcare solutions.”

ARC Future Fellow · Macquarie University School of Natural Sciences

Professor Amy K. Cain

“Persistent fungal infections continue to represent a major and evolving clinical challenge globally, particularly with increasing antimicrobial resistance and limitations in existing therapies.”