Nicox, Glaukos sign exclusive NCX 1728 research and global licensing option agreement

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Nicox SA announced that it has entered into an exclusive research and license option agreement with Glaukos Corp. for NCX 1728, Nicox’s novel nitric oxide (NO)-donating phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor.

According to the companies, under the terms of the agreement, Glaukos will fund the evaluation of NCX 1728 in a preclinical research program agreed between Nicox and Glaukos. The program will look at indications for the treatment of glaucoma, including neuroprotection, and in the treatment of retinal diseases, with the activities being overseen by a Joint Steering Committee.¹

Doug Hubatsch, chief scientific officer of Nicos, pointed out that Glaukos possesses expertise in the treatment of ophthalmic disorders and has unique drug delivery capabilities which could optimize NCX 1728 for applications that include a reduction of intraocular pressure, neuroprotection as well as a possible treatment option for retinal diseases.

“Glaukos is therefore an ideal partner to accelerate the research and development of this unique compound and deliver on its therapeutic potential,” he said. “We look forward to working with Glaukos to evaluate the use of this novel molecule in multiple different indications.”

The companies noted that afforting to details included in the, Glaukos will provide funding for the evaluation of NCX 1728 in a preclinical research program between Nicox and Glaukos. The program will explore new options for the treatment of glaucoma, including neuroprotection, and in the treatment of retinal diseases, with the activities being overseen by a Joint Steering Committee.¹

Moreover, the companies announced that the agreement gives Glaukos an option to ultimately license NCX 1728 globally on an exclusive basis for development in the aforementioned ophthalmic conditions, which can be exercised within certain specified periods, the first of which is in 12 months.

The companies announced that the terms of the agreement, which would initiate upon signature of a license agreement following Glaukos’s exercise of its option to license, include standard economic provisions for a license agreement of this nature.¹

Reference:

1. SA N. Nicox and Glaukos Sign Exclusive NCX 1728 Research and Global Licensing Option Agreement. GlobeNewswire News Room. Published September 23, 2024. Accessed September 23, 2024. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/09/23/2951029/0/en/Nicox-and-Glaukos-Sign-Exclusive-NCX-1728-Research-and-Global-Licensing-Option-Agreement.html

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