Stelis Biopharma (formerly Agila Biotech), a subsidiary of Strides Arcolab Ltd and Pieris AG, a therapeutic protein R&D company, have announced a long-term collaboration for clinical development and commercialisation of multiple novel Anticalin-based protein therapeutics worldwide, primarily focusing on ophthalmology.

The alliance deploys the synergies of Pieris’ innovative drug discovery and early development capabilities with Stelis’ strong bio-manufacturing and clinical development expertise.

Under the terms of the agreement, Pieris will advance each collaborative programme through in vivo proof-of-concept, at which stage Stelis will be responsible for drug manufacturing and advancing the molecule through a first-in-human clinical study. Following positive clinical data, the parties will co-develop programmes under a joint venture.

anil.u@thehindu.co.in