Topigen Pharmaceuticals, Novagali Pharma to collaborate on drug-delivery system

Key Points

Montréal-Two biopharmaceutical companies will collaborate on products designed to improve the bioadhesion and efficacy of RNA-targeting therapeutics delivered to the nasal membrane and ocular surface.

Topigen Pharmaceuticals Inc. of Montréal and Novagali Pharma SA of Evry, France, also announced a cross-license agreement. Under terms of the agreement, Novagali will receive an exclusive worldwide license to develop and commercialize an ophthalmic product based on Topigen's multi-targeted, RNA-targeting platform technology for the treatment and prevention of allergic eye diseases. Topigen will receive an exclusive license to Novagali's topical delivery technology (Novasorb) for use in formulating and developing an RNA-targeted therapy for respiratory conditions such as allergic rhinitis.

Under their agreement, each company will develop the delivery system, which provides improved retention time for therapeutic compounds in the cornea and conjunctiva, as well as within the nose. Novagali will develop it for the prevention of eye diseases.