France-based biopharmaceutical company, DBV Technologies, has collaborated with Nestlé Health Science to develop an atopy patch-test to diagnose cow’s milk allergy (CMPA) in infants and toddlers.
The ready-to-use, standardised test, MAG1C, is based on DBV Technologies’ patented Viaskin technology platform which is leveraged for epicutaneous immunotherapy. It relays biologically active compounds to the immune system through intact skin.
After receiving approvals from the concerned regulatory agencies, Nestlé Health Science will assist in commercialising the product across the world as a part of its own portfolio of nutritional solutions suited for infants and young children afflicted with CMPA and other food allergies.
CMPA affects up to 2-3% of infants and toddlers and is difficult to diagnose.
Nestlé Health Science CEO Greg Behar said: "This innovation can become the breakthrough diagnostic for CMPA.
"Early diagnosis and nutritional intervention helps get infants happily back on the path of healthy development, alleviate the anxieties of parents and reduce healthcare costs.
"Our reach in the field of pediatric allergy makes Nestlé Health Science an ideal commercialisation partner for Press Release Montrouge, France, May 31, 2016 2 DVB’s innovative diagnostic patch."
The development, registration and commercialisation of DBV’s test will be funded up to €100m with an upfront payment of €10m.
DBV will conduct the pivotal Phase III clinical programme to develop the product, following which Nestlé Health Science will assume exclusive rights to commercialise the product, after being approved.
All the development-related investment of the product, MAG1C will have to be paid by DBV including a worldwide clinical programme, as well as manufacturing costs.
DBV will receive a supply price with a mark-up from Nestlé Health Science following a successful manufacturing of the product.
Additionally, Nestlé Health Science will offer DBV tiered royalties on global product sales.
By 2021, the new diagnostic test is expected to be subjected to regulatory approvals worldwide.
