By Fineline Cube 
Jiangsu Vcare PharmaTech Co., Ltd. announced a partnership with Beijing Sun-Novo Pharmaceutical Research Co., Ltd. (SHA: 688621) to advance VC005 topical gel (1%), a second‑generation highly selective JAK1 inhibitor, for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD). Sun-Novo will receive a revenue share in mainland China and collaborate on Phase III trials and market launch.
Partnership Structure & Strategic Terms
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Companies | Vcare PharmaTech / Sun-Novo Pharma (688621.SH) |
| Drug | VC005 topical gel (1%) |
| Drug Class | Second‑generation selective JAK1 inhibitor |
| Indication | Mild to moderate atopic dermatitis |
| Deal Structure | Revenue share in mainland China + clinical collaboration |
| Clinical Status | Phase I & II completed; Phase III upcoming |
| Potential | Best‑in‑class (BIC) |
| Filing History | Category 1 nod for clinical study (March 2023) |
Drug Profile & Clinical Data
- Mechanism: Highly selective JAK1 inhibition reduces inflammatory cytokine signaling in atopic dermatitis while minimizing off‑target effects
- Phase II Results: Demonstrated superior long‑term safety, rapid itch relief, and significant improvement in skin lesions
- Differentiation: Second‑generation selectivity may offer improved efficacy/safety vs. first‑generation JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib, baricitinib)
Market Impact & Commercial Outlook
- China Atopic Dermatitis Market: Valued at ¥8 billion : (~US$1.1 billion) in 2025, growing at 15% CAGR driven by biologics adoption
- JAK Inhibitor Competition: Competes with Cibinqo (Pfizer) and Rinvoq (AbbVie); VC005’s topical formulation and selectivity offer convenience and safety advantages
- Revenue Potential: Analysts project ¥1.5–2.5 billion : (US$210–350 million) peak annual sales if approved, assuming 10–15% market share
- Strategic Value: Partnership leverages Sun-Novo’s regulatory expertise while Vcare retains manufacturing control; positions Vcare as a leader in next‑generation JAK inhibitors
- Next Steps: Phase III trial initiation expected Q2 2026; NDA submission targeted for 2028
Forward‑Looking Statements
This brief contains forward‑looking statements regarding clinical development timelines, regulatory pathways, and revenue projections for VC005. Actual results may differ due to clinical trial outcomes, competitive dynamics, and NMPA review processes.-Fineline Info & Tech