Elan licenses NanoCrystal technology to Roche

Published: 21-Apr-2004

Elan Pharma International, a subsidiary of Irish biotech company Elan Corporation plc, has agreed to license its proprietary NanoCrystal technology to Roche.


Elan Pharma International, a subsidiary of Irish biotech company Elan Corporation plc, has agreed to license its proprietary NanoCrystal technology to Roche.

The technology can improve the bioavailability of drugs by transforming them into nanometer-sized particles that can be used to create more effective and convenient dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, liquids and powders.

The license agreement will provide Roche with access to NanoCrystal technology and the rights to apply it to a drug candidate currently in clinical development. Elan will provide Roche with formulation services and technology in exchange for research revenues, development milestones and royalties on sales of the product incorporating or made using the technology.

An increasing number of the drug candidates synthesised each are poorly water-soluble and are often abandoned because of poor pharmacokinetic properties. According to Elan, NanoCrystal technology has the potential to rescue a significant percentage of these chemical compounds. The drug in nano form can be incorporated into common dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, inhalation devices, sterile forms for injection, with the potential for substantial improvements to clinical performance.

There are currently two pharmaceutical products that have been commercialised incorporating NanoCrystal technology, with several additional product launches expected over the next two years.

'We are pleased that we are going to continue to work with Roche to apply our NanoCrystal technology to the formulation of this drug candidate,' said Paul Breen, executive vice president, global services & operations, Elan. 'By addressing poor water solubility through the use of NanoCrystal technology, Elan Pharma International continues to play a role in furthering the development of drug candidates. In addition, our technology can help companies to differentiate their current therapies from the competition by creating more effective and convenient treatment options for patients.'

  

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