LEO partners for needle-free delivery of biologics

05-Dec-2019 - Last updated on 05-Dec-2019 at 14:43 GMT

(Image: Getty/Kudryavtsev)

LEO and Portal collaborate in the development of needle-free device to allow patient to self-administer dermatology products.

Both companies have signed a global collaboration and licensing agreement to develop the ‘Portal system’.

The device utilizes a jet injector platform, which the companies suggest reduces the time needed to perform self-injection and is less painful, in comparison to needle injections.

Christian Antoni, SVP of global development at LEO, suggested that the final device could be used in conjunction with the company’s dermatology existing portfolio and pipeline – though the Portal Instruments’ drug delivery system can be used to administer treatments across various therapeutic areas.

Portal’s device consists of a handheld injection device and single-use, pre-filled cartridge that delivers biologics through a pressurized liquid jet. The video below demonstrates the potential application method of the device:

The move to develop an easier method of drug delivery for its dermatology pipeline and portfolio arrives as LEO positions itself as a leader in the therapeutic space.

The Danish company has completed a number of acquisitions to strengthen its portfolio in the area, including acquiring Bayer’s prescription dermatology unit last year and a licensing agreement with JW Pharmaceuticals for its drug candidate, JW1601.

Beyond this, the company has also signed another agreement to work with Elektrofi on creating a microparticle suspension system, to allow for subcutaneous injections of dermatology products – again with the objective of creating a more convenient drug delivery system for biologics.