Ahammune Biosciences, Veeda Clinical Research announces start of human trials for new vitiligo drug

Pune: Ahammune Biosciences Private Limited and Ahmedabad-based Veeda Clinical Research Limited have announced a collaboration in human studies for investigating new drug, AB1001, which is being developed as a topical therapy for vitiligo. The preliminary research for AB1001 was conducted at Ahammune’s R & D laboratory based out of Pune, which demonstrates that this drug candidate is both safe and efficacious for vitiligo treatment.

Vitiligo, or leukoderma, is an autoimmune skin condition which results in the formation of white or light patches on the body. It is a lifelong condition, and the current management options for these white patches provide only temporary and symptomatic relief, leading to an enormous unmet global need for treatment. Several misconceptions are associated with the disease, which often causes patients to be ostracised. This, along with fear of change in appearance, has a significant impact on the patient’s life. Both companies—Ahammune Biosciences and Veeda Clinical Research—anticipate that this new drug has great potential for the treatment of vitiligo.

Speaking about the new treatment Dr Parul Ganju, Co-founder, Ahammune Biosciences Private Limited, said, "The development of our investigational new drug AB1001 is a result of years of hard work by Ahammune’s team and our commitment towards the cause of translating scientific innovations for the betterment of the lives of patients. Vitiligo is a debilitating disease where autoimmune attacks on melanocytes result in the formation of white patches. The chronic nature of the disease and the lack of treatment options is distressing for the patients. We have identified a new intervention pathway for the disease and have developed therapeutic molecules targeting this pathway. Our preclinical studies establish that our molecules have the potential to stop disease progression and also support repigmentation"

Commenting on the partnership between both companies, Ajay Tandon, MD, Veeda Clinical Research Limited said, "We are privileged to partner with Ahammune Biosciences in the clinical development of a novel solution for the management of vitiligo as compared to currently available therapies. Veeda Clinical Research, along with its subsidiary Bioneeds India Private Limited and joint venture company Ingenuity Biosciences, will continue to invest in our preclinical and early and late phase clinical research capabilities to be able to partner with innovative biotech companies in developing novel therapies for unmet healthcare needs."