Bausch & Lomb Licenses rPlasmin from Talecris Biotherapeutics for Ophthalmic Use
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Bausch & Lomb and Talecris Biotherapeutics announced that Talecris has granted an exclusive worldwide license to Bausch & Lomb for recombinant Plasmin technology for use in ophthalmology. The companies will co-develop rPlasmin, a recombinant derivative of the human blood component Plasmin, which Bausch & Lomb believes may have potential for use in developing novel therapies for ocular conditions. Talecris is pursuing development of the technology in non-ocular applications, specifically to dissolve blood clots in veins and arteries.
The agreement expands the partnership announced in January 2005 in which Bausch & Lomb licensed plasma-derived Plasmin from Talecris' predecessor, Bayer Biological Products. Bausch & Lomb is enrolling patients in early-stage clinical trials to evaluate Plasmin's therapeutic potential to relieve retinal traction.
Under the terms of the agreement, Bausch & Lomb will be responsible for development of rPlasmin for use in ophthalmology. Bausch & Lomb will make milestone payments based on the development and registration progress, and pay ongoing royalties based on product sales. Further details of the agreement are confidential.