SonoVascular, Inc., a private medical device company based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has entered into an exclusive clinical supply agreement with
Lantheus Holdings, Inc. This partnership is focused on the use of Lantheus' microbubbles in conjunction with SonoVascular's innovative SonoThrombectomy™ System. The aim is to treat
venous thromboembolism (VTE), specifically
deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and
pulmonary embolism (PE).
VTE is a condition characterized by the formation of
blood clots in deep veins, typically in the lower extremities. If a part of the clot dislodges, it can travel to the lungs, resulting in a PE, which is potentially fatal. The SonoThrombectomy System is designed to address these conditions by combining ultrasound technology, microbubbles, low-dose thrombolytic drugs, and mechanical retrieval or aspiration. This integrated approach is delivered via an intravascular catheter system to safely and effectively reduce clot burden and improve thrombolytic delivery, minimizing the need for intensive care.
The microbubbles provided by Lantheus are activated by intravascular ultrasound and will be evaluated in ongoing pre-clinical and forthcoming clinical studies. The SonoThrombectomy System has been engineered to overcome the limitations of existing interventional devices. Its design aims to maximize clot reduction, reduce the dosage and duration of thrombolytic drugs, and enhance their delivery to optimize both safety and effectiveness. Importantly, this system eliminates the necessity for patients to be treated in an intensive care unit.
SonoVascular's SonoThrombectomy System has shown promising results in both in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies. The company is now preparing for first-in-human (FIH) trials in 2024, in partnership with Lantheus, to test the safety and feasibility of the system for treating DVT and PE. Success in these trials will pave the way for pivotal studies in the United States for both indications.
Lantheus will supply the microbubbles and activation devices, while SonoVascular will manage the clinical studies, regulatory submissions, and future commercialization efforts. Upon successful completion of the FIH study, SonoVascular has the option to enter into a long-term exclusive commercial supply agreement with Lantheus.
Etienne Montagut, Chief Business Officer of Lantheus, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that it leverages the strengths of both companies to revolutionize VTE treatment. Daniel Estay, Founder and CEO of SonoVascular, highlighted the potential of their combined technologies to provide a next-generation solution for treating DVT and PE.
Venous thromboembolism affects approximately 900,000 individuals annually in the United States. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis. The most serious complication arises when a part of the clot travels to the lungs, causing a PE, which can be fatal. Long-term complications of DVT can include
post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS), which can be severe enough to cause disability. PE is particularly dangerous, with 10-30% of patients dying within one month of diagnosis.
SonoVascular, founded in 2018, develops innovative ultrasound-based medical devices to treat
vascular diseases. The SonoThrombectomy System, developed from technology licensed from the Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, represents a novel approach to VTE treatment. Combining ultrasound, microbubbles, low-dose thrombolytic drugs, and mechanical retrieval, the system addresses the limitations of current treatments and aims to improve patient outcomes significantly. The company is headquartered in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
How to obtain the latest research advancements in the field of biopharmaceuticals?
In the Synapse database, you can keep abreast of the latest research and development advances in drugs, targets, indications, organizations, etc., anywhere and anytime, on a daily or weekly basis. Click on the image below to embark on a brand new journey of drug discovery!
