The partnership now expects to commence a phase II clinical study with Moli1901 in dry eye syndrome. The companies said that they would share development and supply responsibilities for the drug, as well as royalties.
“Over several years of work with AFI, we have accrued novel and proprietary technical development knowledge on our lead compound. This agreement allows both companies to move forward over a risk sharing path, maintaining and expanding the excellent technical and commercial relationship we currently have,” said Dr Luis Molina, president and CEO of Lantibio.
In dry eye syndrome, it is hypothesized that Moli1901 administered via ocular instillation, will hydrate the surface of the eye preventing dryness and long-term eye injury. A similar mechanism has been postulated in the CF lung, where Moli1901 may hydrate the pulmonary epithelium facilitating the removal of mucus secretions.