Ripple Therapeutics announced today that it entered into a deal with a Bausch + Lomb affiliate related to drug delivery technology.
Toronto-based Ripple develops a patented technology platform based on drugs chemically engineered into controlled-release pharmaceuticals without the use of polymers. The proprietary prodrugs undergo surface erosion to give zero-order release kinetics. They are highly engineerable to tailor to both drug dose and duration.
Importantly, without polymers, once the drug is gone, the implant is gone with zero pro-inflammatory degradation products.
Ripple said that, earlier this year, it entered into an evaluation program and licensing option agreement with an affiliate of Bausch + Lomb.
“We’re pleased to partner with Bausch + Lomb and look forward to working with them to develop sustained release implants that will benefit patients with extended duration and improved safety,” commented Tom Reeves, president & CEO, Ripple Therapeutics. “This is our third strategic collaboration transaction in the last 12 months, which we believe is a testament to the power of the Ripple technology platform and the breadth of its application.”
Bausch + Lomb agreed to fund the early-stage feasibility and preclinical evaluation of the target molecule. It then has the option to license any formulations evaluated under the program for additional financial consideration, including milestones and royalties. The company is a leader in drug delivery for ophthalmic care.
“We’ve known the team at Ripple for a number of years and have always been impressed with their technology platform,” said Mayssa Attar, Bausch + Lomb SVP and Pharmaceutical and Consumer R&D head. “We are pleased to be working with them on this innovative approach to sustained drug delivery which has the potential to improve upon the current standard of care for ophthalmic diseases.”
