Closely-held Ripple Therapeutics has entered into a collaboration and option-to-lease agreement with AbbeVie (NYSE:ABBV) to develop RTC-620, a next generation, fully biodegradable, sustained-release drug delivery intracameral implant with repeat dosing capabilities, aimed at reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) inpatients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT).
Ripple’s patented technology platform is based on a discovery that enables the engineering of controlled-release pharmaceuticals without the use of polymers or excipients. These proprietary prodrugs undergo surface erosion for zero-order release kinetics and are highly customizable for both dose and duration. Since no polymers or excipients are used, the implant fully degrades after drug release, eliminating pro-inflammatory by-products and supporting repeat dosing.
“We’re pleased to partner with AbbVie, a worldwide leader in ophthalmic therapeutics,” said Tom Reeves, president and CEO of Ripple Therapeutics. “By combining our drug delivery platform with AbbVie’s research, clinical, regulatory, and commercial capabilities, we hope to deliver a meaningful impact on the lives of people living with glaucoma.”
Millions of people are affected by glaucoma, one of the leading causes of vision loss. New treatment options are needed to help patients who struggle with topical drops or who are at risk of vision loss and seeking alternative therapies.
“At AbbVie, we strive to find innovative solutions to build our portfolio of vision-preserving therapies,” said Michael Robinson, M.D., vice president and therapeutic area head, ophthalmology at AbbVie. “We are excited to partner with Ripple to further advance the development of RTC-620.”
Under the terms of the agreement, Ripple will lead preclinical development of RTC-620. Upon exercise of the option, AbbVie will lead the clinical and commercialization activities. Ripple will receive an upfront payment of $21.8 million from AbbVie and is eligible to receive up to $290 million in aggregate option fees and milestones, as well as tiered royalties on net sales.
