Argent BioPharma (ASX:RGT) and AusCann have signed a strategic heads-of-agreement to advance cannabinoid-based pharmaceutical development.
Under the agreement, AusCann will license Argent BioPharma’s CannEpil CMC and dossier specifically for non-epilepsy-related pharmaceutical programs.
Argent said the licensing agreement ensures no competition with its epilepsy-focused portfolio. It allows AusCann to enhance its programs with Argent’s regulatory and clinical frameworks. Both companies will also gain access to Neuvis, AusCann’s proprietary self-emulsifying hard-shell capsule formulation, including pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data that has demonstrated improved stability, bioavailability, and scalable manufacturing potential.
"This mutual exchange aims to accelerate drug development timelines, enhance regulatory submissions, and improve market readiness for cannabinoid-based therapeutics," said Argent.
A Joint Steering Committee (JSC) with representatives from both companies will be formed to oversee R&D efforts, optimise data utilisation, and streamline regulatory pathways. The agreement features a deferred licensing fee structure, with royalties on pharmaceutical products developed using jointly leveraged data, R&D, or assets.
Roby Zomer, Chairman of Argent BioPharma, said. "This strategic agreement with AusCann is a major validation of the value we’ve created through years of focused investment in the CannEpil program. By licensing our CMC and regulatory dossier for non-epilepsy indications, we’re unlocking new revenue streams while maintaining the integrity of our epilepsy portfolio. The integration of our proprietary data into AusCann’s development pipeline demonstrates the real-world utility and market relevance of our scientific work. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in Argent BioPharma’s strategy to capitalise on our intellectual assets and extend our leadership in cannabinoid-based therapeutics."