McMaster Researcher Receives Over $2M from Weston Family Foundation to Propel Precision Antibiotic for IBD to Human Trials

In the fall of 2025, Jon Stokes, a scientist at McMaster University, made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying enterololin, a novel antibiotic with promising applications for treating inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's disease. With over $2 million in funding from the Weston Family Foundation, enterololin is slated to enter clinical trials within three years.

Enterololin is distinguished by its precision: it effectively targets harmful gut bacteria while preserving beneficial microbes, addressing a significant flaw in current broad-spectrum antibiotics that can disrupt the natural balance of the gut microbiome. Stokes highlights that these disruptions exacerbate IBD by creating opportunities for dangerous bacteria, such as adherent-invasive E. coli, to proliferate.

Canada faces one of the highest IBD prevalence rates globally, making this discovery particularly crucial for Canadians affected by these conditions. Following the announcement of enterololin's discovery, Stokes received an influx of inquiries from Crohn's patients and advocacy groups, voicing their hope and urgency for treatment. However, he had to temper their expectations, clarifying that the drug is still in the preclinical stage.

With the new funding, Stokes is optimistic about conducting essential preclinical studies and preparing for regulatory requirements and early-phase clinical trials. This support from the Weston Family Foundation aims to facilitate high-risk, high-reward research that can transform lives.

Garfield Mitchell, Chair of the Weston Family Foundation, emphasizes the importance of microbiome research in developing real-world solutions for IBD patients. Stokes acknowledges the complexity of transitioning from laboratory research to human trials but expresses confidence in his team’s preparedness.

Stokes’ research group has emerged as a leader in preclinical studies, utilizing artificial intelligence to find and develop molecules with clinical potential. They are keen to see enterololin and other promising molecules move from mouse models to human applications.

Collaborating with researchers across Canada, Stokes plans to test enterololin's safety using organoids—tiny models of human organs created from human cells. Additionally, his spinout company, Stoked Bio, is investing an extra $1.5 million to aid the antibiotic's readiness for clinical development, demonstrating a significant commitment to its potential.

Stokes believes that the combined funding will expedite the completion of necessary benchmarks before moving to human trials. He is dedicated to this mission, driven not only by scientific discovery but also by the personal stories and desperation expressed by IBD patients who reached out to him.

His commitment is clear: “I want to help people who need help,” reflecting his aspiration to translate scientific breakthroughs into practical solutions. This pursuit of enterololin as a viable treatment for IBD patients represents hope for many, with Stokes determined to bring the antibiotic from the lab to the clinic, providing potentially life-changing options for those suffering from chronic gut disorders.

In summary, enterololin could revolutionize antibiotic treatment for IBD by targeting harmful bacteria without disrupting beneficial microbes, addressing an urgent need in Canada and beyond. With significant funding and a focused plan for development, Stokes is on the path to potentially transforming the lives of countless individuals living with IBD.