University of Liverpool spin-out partners with dermatology biotech company

Galytx Ltd, a ground-breaking biotech company, launched in June 2024, focuses on the development of galectin-3 targeted therapeutics for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, cancer, and fibrosis. Galytx has signed a license agreement with Quodria Ltd for their exclusive rights to use Galytx’s novel galectin-3 inhibitors to develop a topical therapy, Q001, for AD. Collaboratively researchers aim to create effective relief treatment while minimising the side effects commonly associated with current medications.

AD is a chronic, often debilitating, skin condition affecting one in ten adults and one in five children worldwide. AD is characterised by inflammation, dryness, and severe itching, with frequent flares that significantly impact the quality of life for patients of all ages. Current treatments, including corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, are inadequate with limited long-term efficacy and potential side effects. Galytx’s novel targeted drug offers the prospect of a first-in-class treatment that reduces inflammation and restores the natural skin barrier.

The galectin-3 inhibitors licensed by Galytx to Quodria were identified by Professor Lu-Gang Yu and his team at the University’s Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology. These small molecule drug-candidates specifically target galectin-3, a protein found to be increased in the skin of AD patients. Increased galectin-3 has pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic effects on both skin and immune cells which are believed to contribute to the symptoms of AD. Q001 has the potential to be a first-in-class topical treatment for AD, supporting skin barrier function while treating localised inflammation and allowing the skin to recover. Q001 is designed to be complementary to current AD treatments, offering patients across the AD spectrum an effective solution to treat flares and successfully manage their disease.

Galytx Ltd was founded by Professor Lu-Gang Yu to develop drugs specifically targeting the galectin-3 pathway. It was created with support from the University of Liverpool’s Enterprise Team and Future Founders training programme, with initial investment from the University’s Enterprise Investment Fund.

Professor Lu-Gang Yu, CSO, Galytx Ltd said: “Galectin-3 is a promoter in the pathogenesis of cancer as well as several fibrotic and inflammatory diseases. Increasing evidence has indicated that galectin-3 is also actively involved in progression of AD. This agreement with Quodria will provide a unique opportunity for these novel galectin-3 inhibitors, discovered at the University of Liverpool, to be developed as novel targeted therapeutics for AD patients.”

Quodria Ltd is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for common dermatological conditions. Quodria is utilising its extensive expertise in nano formulation and drug development to create new topical treatments to improve patient care and outcomes in AD.

Dr David Cook, CEO, Quodria Ltd also commented: “This agreement marks a significant step in the development of innovative therapies for AD. By combining the galectin-3 expertise of Galytx with our formulation expertise, we are creating a unique new treatment that has the potential to improve the lives of AD patients worldwide.

“Quodria Ltd remains committed to pioneering advancements in dermatological treatments and we look forward to the continued development and future commercialisation of Q001.”

For more information about Galytx Ltd and Quodria Ltd and their latest advancements visit www.galytx.com and https://quodria.com/.