BLISS Technologies Ltd

Prof, John Tagg

Professor John Tagg is a 'germ warfare' expert. He knows their ways well, and has successfully sought to convert their 'military secrets' to our own use.

These secrets exist in the form of bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances (BLIS), which are proteins produced by certain strains of bacteria in their daily struggles against each other. Prof. John Tagg has identified and investigated thousands of these substances over his last 20 years at the University of Otago to see how they might help in our own fight to maintain good health.

Several years ago, this world-leading research was identified by the University as an important part of its intellectual property portfolio. The University's commercial development arm, Innovate Otago, then set to work finding entrepreneurs with the vision to recognise the vast promise of Professor Tagg's work.

BLIS Technology was formed in June 2000 by the Otago Trust Limited and a group of investors. An initial contract transferring the University's rights to the throat bacteria research was signed in August 2000. Last year a wider agreement came into being under which the company acquired the rights to thousands of BLIS-producing organisms and all future products. In return, the University received a 20 per cent shareholding in the company.

The Company started trading on the second board of the New Zealand Stock Exchange in September 2000, and listed on the main board in July 2001. By the end of September last year it had raised more than $6 million in cash through the issue of new shares.

Currently, BLIS is in the process of negotiating partnerships for international distribution of the 'BLIS K12 Throat Guard' lozenges, which will be released domestically in April. Also on the horizon are novel products to help control tooth decay, help prevent skin infections and acne, and a treatment for mastitis in cows that could greatly reduce antibiotic reliance and boost milk production.