Needle-free psoriasis treatment progresses

People suffering from severe psoriasis may soon find symptom relief without injections, after a cream-based treatment being developed by Sydney biotechnology company Apollo Life Sciences outperformed current market-leading drugs in pre-clinical studies. The formula is proceeding to Phase 2 clinical trials.

Apollo has developed the formula using a protein known as a tumour necrosis factor (TNF) blocker, which reduces inflammation and is used to treat psoriasis and other inflammatory diseases.

The comparative tests found Apollo's product is at least as effective as market leaders. The studies also confirmed that Apollo's 'transdermal' technology successfully delivers large proteins, such as anti-inflammatories, through the skin. In comparison, the products currently on the market must be injected.

Apollo has developed world-first technology it calls TransD to take anti-inflammatories and other substances through the skin. This means medications previously taken via injections or tablets can be applied in a cream, allowing direct treatment of the affected areas.

Apollo's science director, Dr Greg Russell-Jones, said the test results show great promise.

"At the moment, people who are prescribed a TNF blocker must take injections," he said. "Apollo's treatment will be easier and less painful to apply."

"The TNF blockers currently on the market can have quite severe side effects, from serious infections and bruising to seizures and a higher risk of cancer.

"Because our TNF blocker is based on human proteins, we expect it will have fewer side effects.

"The transdermal formula will also reduce side effects by delivering the drug directly where it is needed, rather than travelling through the whole body as with injected versions."

"We are also considering approaches from overseas companies about developing our TNF-blocker for subcutaneous delivery."