Mayo Clinic has signed up to support development of InSitu Biologics’ prolonged-release drug delivery technology for anti-cancer therapeutics. The agreement gives Mayo a financial interest in InSitu Biologics and its platform technology.
InSitu is a preclinical-stage biotech with technology for loading large drug doses into a localized delivery matrix. Once injected, the multiphase matrix releases its therapeutic payload over an extended period. InSitu has applied the technology to two candidates, including a cancer prospect designed to avoid the severe adverse events caused by systemic exposure to chemotherapeutic agents.
Now, InSitu has entered into an agreement with the nonprofit Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. The agreement gives the startup the chance to tap into the expertise at Mayo Clinic.
“We are extremely excited to begin work with this group of amazing physicians and scientists. Their cutting-edge expertise and deep clinical experience will be invaluable as we extend our platform to address significant unmet needs in controlled-release drug delivery for cancer patients,” Kevin Bassett, CEO of InSitu, said in a statement.
InSitu framed the co-development agreement as “both a research and commercial endeavor” that will accelerate the adaptation of its technology to anti-cancer therapeutics. The newly minted partners will apply the technology to both established oncology drugs and newly developed molecules.
Cancer is one of two therapeutic areas targeted by InSitu. The company is also applying its technology to pain, notably through the development of a formulation of ropivacaine that is designed to provide 72 hours of relief from a single dose. InSitu sees the candidate, INSB200, as a way to reduce overall opioid use.