LONDON (Alliance News) - Midatech Pharma PLC said Thursday that it has seen positive results from a proof-of-concept in vivo study with OpsiSporin for the treatment of uveitis, using Midatech's microencapsulation technology.
OpsiSporin uses Midatech's microencapsulation technology platform to encapsulate the immunosuppressant compound cyclosporin A, used to control inflammation, in polymer microspheres.
OpsiSporin is being developed by OpsiRx Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a spin out of UK drug delivery specialist Q Chip Ltd.
"The positive outcome of this proof-of-concept study is an important step forward in the development of a sustained release treatment for uveitis. The results showed OpsiSporin to be as efficacious as orally administered cyclosporin A at one thousandth of the dose, highlighting the significant value our microencapsulation technology can add to existing therapeutic molecules," said Chief Executive Officer Jim Philips in a statement.
The company said it will now progress the product programme to the next stage, with the aim of beginning clinical development "as early as 2016".
Shares in Midatech Pharma are trading up 1.4% at 287.00 pence Thursday.
By Hana Stewart-Smith; hanassmith@alliancenews.com; @HanaSSAllNews
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