1LifeMax Laboratories, Inc. has announced that they have entered into an agreement with Novartis Pharma AG that gives them an exclusive worldwide license for an investigational drug called BPR277. LifeMax Laboratories now plans to develop BPR277 for the treatment of Netherton syndrome. For more detailed information, you can read the source press release on the website Business Wire by clicking here.
About Netherton Syndrome
Netherton syndrome is a condition that can cause changes to the skin, immune system, and hair. It is thought to affect an estimated one in 200,000 newborns. According to the NIH, it is caused by alterations to the SPINK5 gene, which is involved in the production of the protein LEKT1, which plays an important role in the development of the outer layer of skin, hair, and immune system function.
Babies born with Netherton syndrome can lack the protection that normal skin provides, which may lead to dehydration and infections. Newborns with Netherton syndrome may have red, scaly skin, which sometimes may leak fluid. Children with Netherton syndrome may show slow growth and weight gain, which can continue into adulthood. Some people with Netherton syndrome experience changes to their skin as they grow older.
In addition to this, Netherton syndrome is also associated with fragile and easily broken hair, and issues linked to the immune system, such as food allergies, asthma, eczema, and hay fever.
This information about Netherton syndrome is based on the NIH website, and you can learn more about the condition by clicking here.
About the Licensing Agreement
LifeMax Laboratories has reached an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement with Novartis that allows them to develop, manufacture, and commercialise the investigational drug BPR277.
BPR277 has already shown clinical proof of concept for use as a potential treatment for Netherton syndrome, and LifeMax say that they are “committed to continuing [its] development.” In addition, LifeMax has said that they may also investigate it for use in other conditions associated with skin barrier impairment.
For more information, you can view the original press release here.
