Edge’s lead drug NimoGel is a combination of the FDA-approved drug Nimodipine, a calcium channel blocker, and a proprietary biodegradable delivery system designed to be injected delivered directly into the subarachnoid space around the brain.
As per the agreement, Edge is expected to take up the responsibility for lead and fund development and commercialisation of NimoGel as well as provide the scientific expertise of its co-founder and chief scientific officer, R Loch Macdonald, a researcher on secondary brain injury. SurModics will provide technical and manufacturing expertise.
Dr Macdonald said: “The NimoGel clinical development program is important because it has the potential to deliver high enough concentrations of nimodipine to the brain to prevent vasospasm and avoid the systemic side effects caused by oral nimodipine.”
Phil Ankeny, interim CEO of SurModics, said: “The use of SurModics’ proprietary biodegradable drug delivery system is an ideal match in this clinical area, as generating high local drug levels is critical for achieving optimal clinical outcomes. We look forward to a strong collaboration with Edge and to continuing in the development and commercialisation of this important product for patients suffering a stroke or TBI.”
Brian Leuthner, president and CEO of Edge, said: “We are thrilled to have SurModics as our development partner on NimoGel and believe that their technical experience, depth of capabilities, and world-class cGMP manufacturing facility make them an ideal partner to help us advance our research and development.”