Stuart Therapeutics, Inc. announced that it has entered into a license agreement with Glaukos Corporation ("Glaukos") under which it has granted Glaukos exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialize Stuart's proprietary ST-113 drug candidate for neuroprotection in glaucoma.
ST-113 is a patented pre-clinical asset that has demonstrated the ability to provide neuroprotection and neuro-repair of optic nerve axons in animal testing and represents one of the leading candidates for a therapeutic approach to glaucoma that is independent of control of intraocular pressure, and that may provide a solution to normal tension glaucoma.
Under the agreement, Stuart will receive an upfront payment, and is eligible for additional development and sales related milestone payments, plus royalties. Glaukos will assume all costs for development of ST-113.
"We are thrilled to have joined forces with Glaukos to develop the first neuroprotective therapeutic targeting the extracellular matrix, which based on our research plays an important role in glaucoma. We wanted to partner with a leader in glaucoma therapeutics to bring this innovative drug candidate to the millions of glaucoma patients across the world, and Glaukos has delivered in this important disease area. They bring critical focus on novel therapies, capabilities in drug product design and delivery, and commercial strength worldwide. Stuart Therapeutics is proud to work with Glaukos on this important program," said Eric Schlumpf, president and CEO of Stuart.
About ST-113
ST-113 is being investigated as a treatment for open angle glaucoma, including normal tension glaucoma. ST-113 is a synthesized collagen mimetic peptide, which selectively restores damaged helical collagen in the extracellular matrix. Based on Stuart's preclinical research results, ST-113 is believed to restore both the structural and cell signaling roles of collagen in the optic nerve region, reducing inflammation, and restoring nerve health. Stuart has been actively developing ST-113 for glaucoma, including the development of novel endpoints suitable for a neuroprotective approach to the disease.