Debiopharm And CRO TCG Lifesciences Announce Success In Novel Antibiotics
By Cyndi Root
The Debiopharm Group and TCG Lifesciences Limited (TCG) announced in a press release that their initial investigations of novel antibiotics have been successful. Having reached the first milestone, the two companies plan to enter into the lead optimization phase. The pair are evaluating antibiotics for drug-resistant bacteria.
Dr. Saumitra Sengupta, Distinguished Scientist at TCG Lifesciences, said, "The strong collaborative spirit from both sides has resulted in reaching this important milestone.” Andrés McAllister, CSO of Debiopharm, said, "It is an important milestone for Debiopharm, supporting our strong commitment to develop novel antibiotics to overcome resistance to current treatments.”
Debiopharm and TCG Partnership
The two companies stated that the first milestone was reached just nine months after the collaboration began in September, 2013. The milestone occurred upon the identification of new classes of anti-infectious drugs and will trigger a milestone payment from Debiopharm to TCG. Debiopharm is working on FabI inhibitors, Debio 1450 and Debio 1452, currently in Phase I and II trials respectively.
Debio 1450 and 1452
Debio 1450 is a prodrug of Debio 1452. It is a staphylococcal-specific antibiotic with oral and IV formulations. The FabI inhibitor, currently in Phase 1 clinical trials, is being developed with a diagnostic test. Due to its preservation of human gut microbiota, the agent lessens antibiotic-associated side effects.
Another FabI inhibitor, Debio 1452 is an oral agent that specifically targets staphylococci, preserving the human microbiome.
TCG Lifesciences
TCG Lifesciences is a leading contract research organization (CRO) focused on early drug discovery and development. The company was founded in India in 2001 and now operates in the U.S., Europe, Japan, and Australia. It focuses on central nervous system (CNS) disorders, inflammatory conditions, metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, and treatments for pain. Recently TCG announced that its affiliate Axcellerate Pharma had established a CMO/CRO facility in New Jersey focused on small molecules and biologics.
Debiopharm Group
The Debiopharm Group is a based in Switzerland and operates different divisions including manufacturing, drug development, and diagnostics. The company focuses on unmet medical needs, and biological and small molecule drug candidates. Business strategies include developing, co-developing, and licensing. Its manufacturing division integrates the formulation of new chemical entities and life cycle management in the United States, Europe, and Japan. Recently, Debiopharm announced a partnership with Orient EuroPharma to market Pamorelin in South East Asia for the treatment of prostate cancer.