Topigen, Novagali enter into agreement

Evry, France, and Montreal-Topigen Pharmaceuticals Inc., a respiratory condition-focused biopharmaceutical company, and Novagali Pharma S.A., an ophthalmology-focused specialty biopharmaceutical company, have launched a strategic collaboration and cross-license agreement.

The agreement states that Novagali will have an exclusive worldwide license to develop and market an ophthalmic product incorporating Topigen’s technology for treatment and prevention of allergic eye diseases. Additionally, Topigen is granted exclusive license to Novagali’s topical delivery system (Novasorb) to be used to produce RNA-targeted therapy for respiratory conditions.

The two companies will join forces to create ocular and nasal forms of RNA-targeting potential product using Novagali’s delivery-system technology. Both companies will work on formulations to enhance the bioadhesion and efficacy of RNA-targeting therapeutics for the nasal membrane and ocular surface.

Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“This project would strengthen our pipeline position in the area of ocular allergic disease, an expanding market that exceeded $1 billion, worldwide last year,” said Jerome Martinez, president and chief executive officer of Novagali Pharma.

Paul K. Wotton, PhD, president and chief executive officer of Topigen, added, “We are excited to be able to apply our multi-targeted, RNA-targeting technology for the first time in ophthalmic indications.”