Clinuvel signs first manufacturing deal for Scenesse

Melbourne biotech Clinuvel (ASX:CUV) has struck the first commercial manufacturing deal for its UV-protection drug Scenesse.

Minnesota-based SurModics, a long term partner of Clinuvel’s in the US, will manufacture and supply the proprietary product from its newly opened facilities in Birmingham Alabama, exclusively and for an indefinite period.

Earlier in the week Clinuvel announced that it had been awarded a US patent acknowledging the role of so-called melanocortin drugs in providing UV protection for fair skinned people who have a genetic variation in the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R). Damage to MC1R is associated with increased risk of melanoma.

Phase II and III clinical trials have indicated Scenesse’s effectiveness in treating certain UV-related skin disorders. In May Clinuvel announced that Scenesse had been successful in treating light and UV intolerant patients diagnosed with the rare genetic disease porphryia in Italy, leading to the drug being approved for reimbursement through the country’s health system. Trials are also underway to study the drug’s effectiveness in mitigating against photodamage experienced by organ transplant patients.

Commenting on the manufacturing agreement Clinuvel CEO Dr Philippe Wolgen said it “forges a formidable relationship for Clinuvel, allowing us to capitalise on the commercial opportunities for Scenesse to provide systemic photoprotection, shielding skin from UV and light in affected patient populations."