China-based Lee’s Pharmaceutical Holdings Ltd (HKG: 0950) has expanded its licensing agreement with US-based Windtree Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: WINT), securing global exclusive rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize KL4 surfactant products, including Surfaxin, Surfaxin LS, and Aerosurf. The revised deal, effective August 9, 2022, builds on the initial agreement signed in June 2017, which granted Lee’s Pharma exclusive rights in Asia.
Product Details
- Surfaxin and Surfaxin LS: Investigational synthetic peptides designed to treat respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature infants by supplementing insufficient natural surfactants.
- Aerosurf: A drug/device combination that delivers aerosolized KL4 surfactant non-invasively, reducing the need for endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. The product has fast-track status in the US and previously received orphan drug designation for RDS.
Strategic Outlook
The expanded agreement positions Lee’s Pharma to commercialize these products globally, leveraging Windtree’s innovative KL4 surfactant technology. The collaboration aims to address unmet needs in neonatal respiratory care, with potential to transform clinical outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.-Fineline Info & Tech
