Amplia Therapeutics (ASX:ATX) has received grant funding to undertake a research collaboration with Australia’s national science agency CSIRO to develop novel topical formulations of the company’s FAK inhibitors.
Amplia said it will work with researchers at CSIRO to help develop formulations of its small molecule FAK inhibitors that could be applied topically (i.e. directly) to wounds and burns to aid healing and reduce scarring.
Over-activity of Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) in fibroblast cells in wounds is believed to be responsible for laying down and cross-linking collagen, resulting in scar tissue formation.
Scarring limits the movement and pliability of skin and has cosmetic implications. The global wound healing market is estimated to be over US$20b billion and the market for scar treatments is similar.
Amplia CEO and managing director, Dr Chris Burns, said, “There is growing evidence in the scientific literature that inhibition of FAK in the skin may accelerate wound healing and limit scar formation. We are looking forward to working with CSIRO to develop a formulation of our proprietary FAK inhibitors so we can determine their suitability for use in wound healing.”
The funding is being provided through Innovation Connections, a service under AusIndustry’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme that provides advice and grants to small and medium businesses to access knowledge and engage with researchers with specific capabilities.
Dr Burns added, “It is highly encouraging to secure this funding and have an opportunity to work with the world-class research team at CSIRO to explore the potential of our FAK inhibitors in topical applications.”