Starpharma Holdings Limited,
a world leader in the development of dendrimer nanotechnology for pharmaceutical,
life-science and other applications, today announced that one of its key patents
relating to the use of dendrimers to protect against sexually transmitted infections
has been approved in Japan.
This approval means that VivaGel® and the VivaGel® coated condom are
now covered by granted patents in all major markets including Europe, the US
and Japan.
Last month Starpharma announced a full licence agreement with SSL International
plc (LSE:SSL) in relation to the VivaGel® coated condom, with estimated
receipts in excess of A$100m comprising royalties, milestone payments and development
support. In addition Starpharma is continuing to develop VivaGel® as a stand-alone
product for use by women to protect themselves from HIV and HSV-2 (genital herpes).
The development for these two indications has significant NIH support.