In May 2012 PBB and PolyTherics signed an agreement to undertake a feasibility programme to evaluate the use of TheraPEG technology to develop a long-acting (polyethylene glycol)PEGylated form of Factor VIII (TheraPEG FVIII ) to treat Haemophilia A (HA).
A longer-acting FVIII will decrease the dose requirement in Haemophilia patients treated using FVIII for regular prophylaxis against bleeding episodes.
Under the agreement, PolyTherics will receive undisclosed milestone payment, regulatory milestones as well as royalties on future worldwide product sales.
PBB COO Michael Earl said, ”The benefits of prophylaxis for patients with more severe forms of haemophilia are well established, and the development of this further product will make patients’ lives simpler and enhance compliance, whilst providing a significant commercial opportunity for our alliance with PolyTherics."
PolyTherics CEO John Burt said progression of a TheraPEG Factor VIII is a development for PolyTherics and its broadening alliance with Pro Bono Bio.
"TheraPEG™ is a proven technology for extending the half-life and enhancing the beneficial characteristics of proteins and therefore enables our partners to develop better biopharmaceuticals to address significant clinical needs," Burt added.