Protein Polymer Technologies, Genencor sign licensing agreement for industrial protein polymers
Managing Editor, Pharmaceutical Online and Drug Discovery Online
Email: adepalma@vertical.net
Combining genes, protein design, and large-scale manufacturing
Protein Polymer Technologies, Inc. (PPT; San Diego, CA) has signed an exclusive license agreement with Genencor International, Inc. (Palo Alto, CA) which combines the two firms' technologies for production of industrial proteins. PPT will contribute protein polymer design and production technology; Genencor brings genetics, protein design, and large-scale manufacturing technology to the table. PPT retains all rights to its technology for use in the development and commercialization of medical products.
The deal combines the two companies' technologies, at both the technology and product levels: Genencor specializes in industrial enzymes, while PPT focuses on medical products. However, both have an interest in biomaterials.
PPT holds patents on the design and development of novel protein polymers whose repetitive amino acid sequences resemble repeating monomers in conventional polymers. Like common plastics, amino acid-based polymers boast predictable physical and biological properties.
In return for the license, Genencor will pay PPTI a license fee, benchmark payments associated with various product development objectives, and royalties on the sale of products developed under the agreement. In addition, PPTI will to provide contract R&D services as needed.
PPT has been a pioneer in protein design and synthesis since its founding in 1988, developing a portfolio of engineered biomaterials based on protein polymers targeted to medical markets. PPT's products include a urethral bulking agents for treating stress urinary incontinence, dermal augmentation products for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, surgical adhesives and sealants, scaffolds for wound healing and tissue engineering, and depots for local drug delivery. To date, PPTI has been issued nineteen U.S. Patents on its core technology with corresponding applications in key international markets.
For more information: Protein Polymer Technologies, Inc., 10655 Sorrento Valley Rd., San Diego, CA 92121. Tel: 858-558-6064. Fax: 858-558-6477.