Ann: Phase 2a Study Shows BTX 1801 Eradicates S. Aureus, page-209

With only 60 participants in the BTX 1801 phase 2a trial, it is possible the number of people with MRSA were too low to glean statistically valid information. E.g. a 2013 article noted that 0.8% of staph colonised individuals have MRSA. So, based on that estimate, that is 4.8 people out of 60 = 2-3 people per group (active and placebo). This would clearly be too low a number to provide statistically significant results.

I think a key to the current BTX 1801 study result is that the primary endpoints were met. The statement by Professor Geoffrey Coombs is very positive for this phase 2a study:

Professor Geoffrey Coombs, Murdoch University’s Chair of Public Health, commented: “BTX 1801’s
observed upfront eradication rates and sustained eradication effect, following treatment period, is
very encouraging. Data from the BTX 1801 study represents a significant milestone and enhances the
potential of better infection prevention measures in surgical settings to combat the growing global
development of antibiotic resistance.”