Singapore: GVK BIO has announced an extended collaboration with the Australia-based clinical stage biopharmaceutical company, Akaal Pharma, for the scale-up of its novel topical AKP-11 ointment to support Phase II clinical study in psoriasis.

GVK BIO's Formulation Development business unit in Bengaluru has developed a robust and scalable process for novel topical AKP-11 ointment. GVK BIO plans to support clinical studies of Akaal Pharma's topical psoriasis drug by providing clinical supplies, manufacturing and analytical support. Discussions are also on-going to work towards exploring appropriate commercialization packaging and various formulations for the topical use in other inflammatory diseases.

Mr Seetharaju Gembali, senior vice-president, Formulation R&D of GVK BIO, said, "Strengthening of our partnership with Akaal Pharma is testimonial to our expertise in the Formulation Development and we look forward to working with other clients."

Dr Dale Dhanoa, CEO of Akaal Pharma, said, "We have had a very efficient CRO relationship with GVK for our clinical trials supplies support due to GVK BIO's experience, capabilities and facilities. We are excited to advance our First-in-Class multimodal acting topical drug candidate AKP-11 into Phase 2 stage of clinical development for the treatment of psoriasis. There are several other inflammatory diseases that we are targeting with our clinical compound and are currently exploring various formulations for its topical applications."