The Clinuvel Group (ASX:CUV) has opened a state-of-the-art centralised Research & Development Centre in Singapore, operated by is subsidiary Vallaurix Pte Ltd.
The extensive bespoke analytical and biological laboratories and offices will house and advance Clinuvel’s innovative R&D projects, expanding capacities in molecular profiling, peptide chemistry, and polymer and formulation sciences, as well as the capability to conduct ex vivo experiments and bioassays, and studies on fresh biological and tissue cultures.
Clinuvel is focused on innovative areas of medicine with Vallaurix developing drugs from the family of melanocortins and complementary over-the-counter (OTC) consumer products. In July the company announced the first novel products from the Vallaurix laboratories, liquid injectable formulations known as Prenumbra.
In recent years Clinuvel has controlled its investments in new product development, building dedicated scientific teams worldwide and now opening its purpose-built facility in Singapore to expedite our research,” CLINUVEL’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr Dennis Wright said.
“Our research work with melanocortins – which target cells across the body and are known to have protective, anti- inflammatory and vasoactive effects, amongst others – focuses on translating our new molecules into safe, effective and clinically accepted pharmaceutical drugs for unmet patient needs.
“With CLINUVEL’s first product already approved and being used to treat patients in Europe and the USA, the VALLAURIX teams are working on second- generation melanocortins, as well as OTC products which leverage our expertise in related fields. The new facilities will enable VALLAURIX to conduct a greater diversity of work in- house, faster and more efficiently,” Dr Wright said.
In April 2020, the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) reviewed VALLAURIX’s scientific results and progress and decided to award up to S$500,000 under their Research Incentive Scheme for Companies (RISC). This award is offered by the Singaporean government to incentivise Clinuvel to base its research on high values technologies in Singapore.
The new facility replaces the previous laboratory which opened in 2014. Construction of the new facility commenced in 2019 but was delayed by four months due to government restrictions put in place to limit the spread of the corona virus.
Final inspection and certification will see the facility operating under ISO 17025 and conforming to Good Laboratory Practice.
