Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) and Protalix (NYSE-Amex: PLX) today announced that they have entered into an agreement to develop and commercialize taliglucerase alfa, a plant-cell expressed form of glucocerebrosidase (GCD) in development for the potential treatment of Gaucher’s disease.
Under the terms of the agreement, Pfizer will receive exclusive worldwide licensing rights for the commercialization of taliglucerase alfa, while Protalix will retain the exclusive commercialization rights in Israel. Taliglucerase alfa is the first enzyme replacement therapy derived from a proprietary plant cell-based expression platform using genetically engineered carrot cells.
With the successful completion of Phase III clinical studies, Protalix is preparing to complete a rolling New Drug Application (NDA) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA has granted Orphan Drug designation and Fast Track status, facilitating the development and expediting the review of drugs to treat rare conditions or diseases, as well as an Emergency Use Authorization. The FDA has also requested, and subsequently approved, an Expanded Access Program (EAP) treatment protocol. Taliglucerase alfa is currently being provided to Gaucher’s patients in the U.S. under the EAP protocol, as well as to patients in the European Union under a compassionate use protocol.
“We are excited about this collaboration, which represents a significant step towards bringing, for the first time, a plant-based enzyme replacement treatment option to patients affected by Gaucher’s disease,” commented Dr. David Aviezer, president and CEO of Protalix. “By joining our advances in biologics manufacturing and protein development with Pfizer’s global strengths in patient services and reimbursement we expect to help make taliglucerase alfa an important and cost-effective treatment choice for Gaucher’s patients throughout the world.”