Melbourne, Oct 30, 2008 (ABN Newswire) - Starpharma Holdings Limited (ASX:SPL)(PINK:SPHRY) today announced that one of its key patents relating to the use of dendrimers to protect against sexually transmitted infections has been approved in Japan.
This approval means that VivaGel(R) and the VivaGel(R) coated condom are now covered by granted patents in all major markets including Europe, the US and Japan.
Last month Starpharma announced a full licence agreement with SSL International plc (LON:SSL) in relation to the VivaGel(R) coated condom, with estimated receipts in excess of A$100m comprising royalties, milestone payments and development support. In addition Starpharma is continuing to develop VivaGel(R) as a stand-alone product for use by women to protect themselves from HIV and HSV-2 (genital herpes). The development for these two indications has significant NIH support.
Starpharma Holdings Limited (ASX:SPL, OTCQX:SPHRY) is a world leader in the development of dendrimer nanotechnology for pharmaceutical, life-science and other applications. SPL is principally composed of two operating companies, Starpharma Pty Ltd in Melbourne, Australia and Dendritic Nanotechnologies, Inc in Michigan, USA. Products based on SPL's dendrimer technology are already on the market in the form of diagnostic elements and laboratory reagents.
The Company's lead pharmaceutical development product is VivaGel(R) (SPL7013 Gel), a vaginal microbicide designed to prevent the transmission of STIs, including HIV and genital herpes.
Contact
Dr Jackie Fairley Chief Executive Officer TEL: +61-3-8532-2704
SSL International plc
