The project is scheduled to run for 24 months, with the first 12 months committed to experimental research and the second 12 months to selection of a lead candidate suitable for pre-clinical development.
Both companies are expected to contribute their respective expertise to defining the characteristics of PEGylated peptides as novel therapeutics.
Reportedly, the new research initiative, based on peptide candidates discovered by Zealand for the treatment of metabolic, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases, will be supported by funding from the Eureka Eurostars program.
Keith Powell, CEO of PolyTherics, said: “We are very excited to launch this research collaboration with Zealand Pharma. The opportunity to embark on this relationship demonstrates the broad applicability of PolyTherics’ proprietary technologies to biologics with huge clinical development potential.”
David Horn Solomon, chief executive of Zealand Pharma, said: “Our collaboration with PolyTherics will result in peptide-based drug offerings from Zealand that extend the convenience and safety in a range of indications. We are pleased to work closely with PolyTherics and apply their strong technology platform to our programs.