Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Toray Licenses Drug Candidate for Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment

Key highlights
  • Sanodyne will pay Toray upfront and milestone fees, plus sales-based fees and royalties post-launch.
  • SNT-001, a small molecule with a novel mechanism, showed safety in Phase I trials in the UK.
  • Sanodyne plans to start a Phase II clinical trial for SNT-001 in 2026.
  • Peripheral neuropathy affects over 200 million people globally.

License Agreement

Toray Industries, Inc. and Sanodyne Therapeutics, Inc. have entered into an exclusive worldwide license agreement. This grants Sanodyne the rights to develop, manufacture, and market TRK-750, a drug candidate for treating peripheral neuropathy and neuropathic pain. Sanodyne will continue its research and development under the code name SNT-001.

Financial Terms

Sanodyne will pay Toray upfront and milestone fees for each development stage. Additionally, sales-based milestone fees and royalties will be paid after the market launch.

Peripheral Neuropathy Overview

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition involving dysfunction of peripheral nerves, affecting motor, sensory, and autonomic nerves. It can result from causes like shingles, diabetes, or chemotherapy, with symptoms including burning pain, tingling, numbness, paralysis, and muscle weakness. Over 200 million people worldwide suffer from this condition, and treatment needs remain largely unmet.

Clinical Development

Nonclinical studies have shown that SNT-001, a small molecule with a novel mechanism of action, can suppress neuropathic pain and protect peripheral nerves. A Phase I clinical trial in the UK demonstrated its tolerability and safety, with no serious central nervous system adverse events. Sanodyne plans to initiate a Phase II clinical trial in 2026.

Collaboration Goals

Toray aims to accelerate drug innovation through open innovation strategies, collaborating with external entities. Sanodyne will focus on developing SNT-001 and exploring new therapies for neuropathy and pain. Together, they aim to advance clinical development and commercialization to provide effective treatments for patients.