Deal could give boost to B.R. pharmaceutical research

Baton Rouge-based biopharmaceutical manufacturer TransGenRx has entered into a seven-year agreement with Novocyt to produce growth factor proteins intended for use in new human biopharmaceuticals. The growth factors have been shown in animal models to be effective in wound healing, the development of new blood vessels and the regrowth of nerve tissue. “This contract validates the value of our technology,” says Richard Cooper, chief science officer for TransGenRx and professor in the LSU AgCenter School of Animal Sciences. “But more important, it’s a huge step closer to AgCenter spin-off technology being commercialized.” TransGenRx will initially supply research-grade material for testing. When the product is proven to work biologically, the company will produce commercial quantities for human clinical trials. TransGenRx will be the exclusive supplier for clinical trials and commercialization, manufacturing the product exclusively for Novocyt, which will pay product development costs. The agreement gives Novocyt an option to extend the term for an additional seven years. TransGenRx was started through licensing agreements with the LSU AgCenter. Novocyt, headquartered in Clearwater, Fla., develops, manufactures and markets advanced and innovative protein solutions for wound healing and neuro-regenerative technology.