Chiesi and Kamada have made a strategic agreement on the availability of inhaled alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) in Europe, the countries of the former Soviet Union and Turkey.
Italian pharmaceutical company Chiesi Farmaceutici SpA and Kamada, an Israeli pharmaceutical biotechnology company, have reached a 12-year exclusive agreement on the sale of inhaled Α1ΑΤ, which is a candidate drug for the treatment of Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency / A1AD in Europe, the countries of the former Soviet Union and Turkey.
This hereditary disorder occurs in patients with inadequate production of A1AT from the liver. A1AT is an important protein that protects the lungs from certain enzymes, which are produced by white blood cells during an infection. Clinically, A1AT deficiency is associated with the development of serious diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Inhaled Α1ΑΤ, which is currently in the phase III of clinical trials, may be the world’s first drug to treat patients suffering from the genetic disease Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, which will be given by inhalation.
Under the agreement, both companies will investigate more therapeutic indications for the candidate drug. This confirms the commitment of the Chiesi Group to the research for innovative products, through research and development programs carried out internally and through collaborations with external partners.
The President of the Chiesi Group, Dr. Alberto Chiesi, said "We are very happy about this strategic alliance on inhaled Α1ΑΤ, as this product has the potential to change the lives of thousands of patients who suffer from this life-threatening genetic disorder”.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Chiesi Group, Dr. Ugo di Fransesco, said "We are especially pleased to add inhaled A1AT to our already advanced product portfolio at an advanced stage of development. It is a product of the “Special Care” category, designated orphan, for respiratory illnesses and perfectly matched with Chiesi’s strategy while strengthening its leadership position in the major markets.
