Gilead and Hanmi Join Forces to Revolutionize Oral Drug Delivery
In an exciting development for the pharmaceutical landscape, Hanmi and Health Hope Pharma (HHP) have announced a landmark agreement granting Gilead exclusive rights to develop and commercialize Encequidar, an innovative molecule poised to change the face of oral drug delivery.
Introduction to the Collaboration
This collaboration highlights the potential of Hanmi’s proprietary Orascovery™ platform, which is critically acclaimed for transforming injectable medications into effective oral formulations. This strategic alliance not only supplies Gilead with exclusive global rights to Encequidar in the field of virology, but also provides access to essential drug supply and technical expertise.
Innovative Drug Delivery Technology
The Orascovery™ platform represents a significant leap in drug innovative delivery systems. Encequidar, functioning as a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitor, was developed through this platform and showcases Hanmi’s dedication to enhancing patient compliance through oral formulations.
Terms of the Agreement
Under this comprehensive agreement, both Hanmi and HHP will play key roles alongside Gilead, not only providing drug supply but also sharing invaluable technical know-how. This collaboration comes with significant financial incentives; both companies will receive an upfront payment and remain eligible for various developmental, regulatory, and sales milestones. Moreover, they will benefit from low single-digit royalties on net sales.
Advancements in Biotechnology
Discussing the agreement, Dr. Dennis Lam, the founder of HHP expressed enthusiasm about the direction this partnership could take. He highlighted the transformative potential of Encequidar as a first-in-class P-gp inhibitor, particularly in leading to the creation of oral formulations across multiple therapeutic fields. This collaboration exemplifies a remarkable innovation milestone for the Hong Kong biotech industry.
Future Drug Development Plans
Jae-Hyun Park, CEO of Hanmi Pharm, underscored the importance of this agreement in validating the company’s formulation technology and R&D expertise. He articulated that this collaboration with a global leader like Gilead opens up new avenues for growth and innovation. Hanmi aims to keep expanding their strategic partnerships to facilitate further advancements in patient access globally.
Clinical Progress and Challenges
Historically, Hanmi initially out-licensed Encequidar along with its oral anticancer drug, Oraxol, to Athenex in 2011. However, due to Athenex's insolvency, the rights were transitioned to HHP along with other stakeholders. Currently, HHP is at the forefront of clinical trials for Oraxol, which are being conducted in the U.S., Hong Kong SAR, and New Zealand since mid-2025. Plans are already in motion to introduce this product sequentially to markets in Europe and Asia, extending to the U.S.
Contact Information
For more information regarding this promising collaboration and partnership details, interested parties can explore the official channels. Although specific email contacts aren't provided, the general inquiry line is available for additional communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the collaboration between Gilead and Hanmi?
The collaboration aims to develop and commercialize Encequidar, focusing on enhancing oral drug delivery technology in virology.
What is the Orascovery™ platform?
The Orascovery™ platform is a proprietary technology developed by Hanmi that enables the conversion of injectable drugs into oral formulations, improving patient adherence.
How does this agreement benefit Hanmi and HHP?
These companies will receive upfront payments and can earn royalties based on Encequidar's sales, alongside sharing expertise and drug supply within the project.
What are the future plans for Oraxol?
HHP is conducting clinical trials for Oraxol, with plans for subsequent launches in Europe, Asia, and the U.S., starting from locations like Hong Kong SAR.
Who can be contacted for more information?
While specific emails are not provided, general inquiries can be made through the official websites or contact channels associated with Hanmi Pharm.
