Galytx, a spin-out company from the University of Liverpool, has signed a licensing agreement with dermatology biotech, Quodria.
Through this deal, Galytx and Quodria will develop a first-in-class, galectin-3 targeted treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD).
Additionally, Quodria will gain exclusive rights to use Galytx's galectin-3 inhibitors, which the biotech will use to develop a topical therapy — Q001 — for the skin condition.
By collaborating on this project, the two companies hope to create an effective topical treatment for AD that has less side effects than current medications on the market.
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that affects one in five children worldwide, and is characterised by the inflammation and dryness of skin, which is often accompanied by severe itchiness.
Currently, there are a range of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants that are used to treat the condition, but they are not often efficacious long-term and can have significant side effects when used for a prolonged period.
Therefore, Galytx's created a novel targeted drug that aims to reduce inflammation and restore the natural skin barrier.
It works by targeting the protein galectin-3, which is raised in those with AD, Galytx believes that Q001 can treat localised inflammation and promote skin recovery.
It can also be used alongside current AD treatments, allowing patients to effectively treat flare-ups.
Professor Lu-Gang Yu, CSO, Galytx Ltd said: “Galectin-3 is a promoter in the pathogenesis of cancer as well as several fibrotic and inflammatory diseases; increasing evidence has indicated that galectin-3 is also actively involved in progression of AD."
"This agreement with Quodria will provide a unique opportunity for these novel galectin-3 inhibitors, discovered at the University of Liverpool, to be developed as novel targeted therapeutics for AD patients.”
Dr David Cook, CEO, Quodria Ltd also commented: “This agreement marks a significant step in the development of innovative therapies for AD. By combining the galectin-3 expertise of Galytx with our formulation expertise, we are creating a unique new treatment that has the potential to improve the lives of AD patients worldwide.
“Quodria Ltd remains committed to pioneering advancements in dermatological treatments and we look forward to the continued development and future commercialisation of Q001.”