Posted: 23 May 2023
Amplia Therapeutics Limited, is pleased to announce it has received grant funding to undertake a research collaboration with Australia’s national science agency CSIRO to develop novel topical formulations of the Company’s FAK inhibitors.
Amplia will work with researchers at CSIRO to help develop formulations of its small molecule FAK inhibitors that could be applied topically (i.e. directly) to wounds and burns to aid healing and reduce scarring.
Over-activity of Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) in fibroblast cells in wounds is believed to be responsible for laying down and cross-linking of collagen, resulting in the formation of scar tissue. Scarring limits the movement and pliability of skin as well as having cosmetic implications. The global wound healing market is estimated to be >US$20b and the market for scar treatments is of similar size.
Amplia CEO and MD, Dr Chris Burns, commented: “There is growing evidence in the scientific literature that inhibition of FAK in the skin may accelerate wound healing and limit scar formation. We are looking forward to working with CSIRO to develop a formulation of our proprietary FAK inhibitors so we can determine their suitability for use in wound healing.” The funding is being provided through Innovation Connections, a service under AusIndustry’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme that provided advice and grants to small and medium businesses to access knowledge and engage with researchers with specific capabilities.
Amplia CEO and MD, Dr Chris Burns, said: “It is highly encouraging to secure this funding and have an opportunity to work with the world-class research team at CSIRO to explore the potential of our FAK inhibitors in topical applications.”
