3SBio Seals Collaboration, License Agreement With Panacor Bioscience

Nephoxil (ferric citrate) is a differentiated, iron-based phosphate binder for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia (elevated phosphate levels) in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD). Nephoxil is free of aluminum, lanthanum and calcium, and is not polymer-based.

Nephoxil has completed phase II clinical development programs, including a dose-ranging study, a high dose safety and tolerability study and an open-label extension study, with compelling clinical data. Nephoxil is developed globally and is entering phase III clinical development in the US, Japan and Taiwan.

As per the agreement, Panacor Bioscience will grant 3SBio exclusive commercialization rights to Nephoxil in China. Panacor Bioscience will receive an upfront equity investment of $1m and royalties on future product sales. 3SBio will be responsible for the cost of clinical development, registration, manufacturing and commercialization of Nephoxil in China. The agreement is subject to final approval by Taiwan’s regulatory authorities, including the Investment Commission of the Taiwan Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Winston Town, chief executive officer of Panacor Bioscience, said: “We are excited to extend the franchise of Nephoxil into one of the most important markets for chronic kidney disease. We are very pleased to enter the relationship with 3SBio which has a proven track record of developing and marketing innovative pharmaceutical products in China.”

Jing Lou, chief executive officer of 3SBio, said: “Given the limitation of existing phosphate binders in China, Nephoxil has the potential to improve the phosphate management of the growing number of CKD patients in China. We are optimistic about this new addition to our nephrology franchise and look forward to working with Panacor Bioscience as we start the SFDA approval process.”