French companies Provence Technologies, a service provider of specialist fine chemistry, and Neuroptis Biotech, specializing in the discovery and development of innovative therapies in neurology and ophthalmology, are strengthening of their collaboration for transferring the chemical development of Neuroptis Biotech’s drug candidate ML7 and producing the first GMP batches before the end of 2012.

Provence and Neuroptis have already collaborated successfully in developing a synthetic pathway for ML7, manufacturing the first non-GMP batches and devising associated analytical methods. The two companies have embarked on the process optimization phase to facilitate the transfer of the compound and the start of production on an industrial scale, scheduled for September this year.

ML7 is a drug candidate for the treatment of dry eye syndromes. It is the first of a new therapeutic class and has the potential to provide a targeted and effective therapeutic remedy for the millions of people suffering from dry eye syndrome, Gougerot-Sjogren syndrome and inflammations, especially ones caused by allergies.

“Our know-how in the area of organic synthesis, process development and the management of fine chemistry projects enabled us to handle the chemical development of this drug candidate and produce the first batches of ML7, thereby enabling Neuroptis to begin initial formulation tests,” said Dr. Babak Sayah, CEO, Provence Technologies.

Eric Belot , chairman, Neuroptis Biotech, added, “Our collaboration with Provence Technologies has enabled us to have the first batches of ML7 not only on time but also to a level of purity that means we can proceed to the formulation and toxicity study stages with greater confidence.”