MonoSol Rx and Midatech Group Ltd. anounced positive results from pre-clinical proof-of-concept studies for oral insulin delivery in Rhesus monkey studies and hope to begin human trials in 2011.The two companies are developing insulin PharmFilm under a partnership that leverages MonoSol Rx’s PharmFilm and Midatech’s biocompatible nanoparticles to develop orally bioavailable formulations of peptides and drugs. This partnership includes a joint venture set up to focus on the development and commercialization of products combining the two companies’ respective technologies in the diabetes field.
The transbuccal Pharmfilm delivery of insulin in the Rhesus monkey study represents the most advanced proof-of-concept to date for any investigative oral buccal insulin formulation, and confirms previously announced positive results in two porcine studies. Primates in the study were administered insulin PharmFilm transbuccally, or “inside the cheek,” with data confirming delivery of an active therapeutic dose of insulin.
In addition to insulin PharmFilm, MonoSol Rx and Midatech are also evaluating additional peptides, including GLP-1, for oral buccal delivery. Based on positive results from the first GLP-1 porcine study, additional GLP-1 studies are being planned for 2011
