PRINCETON, N.J., Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Celator Pharmaceuticals today announced that the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory (NCL), operated by SAIC-Frederick (Frederick, Maryland), has agreed to conduct characterization studies to advance the development of the company’s nanoparticle drug formulation technology.
The current material transfer agreement focuses on Celator’s hydrophobic docetaxel prodrug nanoparticle (HDPN) formulation to support an eventual investigational new drug (IND) filing with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Specifically, the NCL has selected HDPN for intensive physical characterization, in-vitro studies, and in-vivo pharmacology and toxicology protocols.
Celator scientists have demonstrated the HDPN formulation substantially increases drug circulation lifetime and efficacy compared to conventional docetaxel formulations. These improvements formed the basis of the decision made by the NCL’s scientific review committee for the characterization study of HDPN.
“We are pleased the NCL is conducting this work to help us advance HDPN toward the clinic,” said Scott Jackson, chief executive officer of Celator Pharmaceuticals. “The technology has broad potential application in addressing therapeutic needs and HDPN represents our first approach.”
Celator Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
