Phebra partners with University of Wollongong to develop drug for leukemia, pancreatic cancer
Australian pharmaceutical firm Phebra has joined forces with the University of Wollongong (UOW) in a six-year collaboration agreement to conduct research and development (R&D) and trials for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemias and pancreatic cancer. Phebra’s CEO, Andre Vlok, expressed satisfaction with the extension of their partnership with UOW and expressed excitement about the drug’s entry into human trials. The collaboration showcases Phebra’s commitment to bringing new drugs to the market and supporting Australian researchers in developing and commercializing local products.
The collaboration between Phebra and UOW began in 2016 when the university’s medicinal chemistry research group, led by Associate Professor Carolyn Dillon, started working with Phebra. Associate Professor Dillon and Dr. Judith Carrall developed the anti-cancer agent and published their findings in 2019. The novel chemical uses a targeting method to deliver small amounts of arsenic to specific tumors, reducing adverse effects and expanding the drug’s potential in treating difficult-to-treat diseases such as acute myeloid leukemia and pancreatic cancer.
Phebra’s R&D Director, Dr. Mal Eutick, acknowledged the tremendous potential of the work and hinted at the possibility of utilizing these targeted chemicals in the treatment of other malignancies like mesothelioma. The team has already developed a system for the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) production of the drug to provide compliant material for future trials. The scientific foundation of the study has been approved for publication in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, and the findings were presented at the 20th International Conference on Biological Inorganic Chemistry in Adelaide.
The partnership between UOW and Phebra offers an opportunity for the university’s post-graduate students to gain practical experience in the processes of drug design, development, and marketing. Associate Professor Dillon and Dr. Carrall expressed their enthusiasm for continuing the partnership with Phebra and advancing to the next stage of clinical trials. Professor David Currow, UOW Deputy Vice-Chancellor, emphasized the significance of such business partnerships in driving innovation and generating real-world impact. The development and manufacturing of new medicines in Australia not only address clinical needs but also contribute to building the country’s knowledge economy.
Original article: Phebra partners with University of Wollongong to develop drug for leukemia, pancreatic cancer
