Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc. announced that Edesa Biotech Inc. (Edesa) has licensed the rights to ASF-1096 (R-salbutamol) for use in anorectal disorders. ASF-1096 is a phase II product candidate that Cipher is investigating as a treatment for selected inflammatory skin disorders. Cipher acquired the global rights to the product in February 2015. Under this agreement, Cipher retains all rights to ASF-1096 for dermatological conditions.

ASF-1096 is the first dermatological agent selectively targeting the ß2-adrenoceptor of dermal inflammatory cells including keratinocytes and various infiltrating leukocytes. When applied topically, ASF-1096 penetrates through the stratum corneum and binds to ß2-adrenoceptors, leading to immunomodulatory effects by reducing inflammatory reactions mediated by CD4+ lymphocytes and other types of ß2-adrenoceptor presenting leukocytes. This results in a decrease of pro-inflammatory gene products such as IL-2, TNF-a, and IFN-?. ASF-1096 was granted Orphan Drug status by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of cutaneous forms of Lupus Erythematosus.

"Given its novel anti-inflammatory properties, we believe ASF-1096 has promise as a compound to treat a range of anorectal disorders, and we're pleased to partner with Edesa to move the clinical development forward for these indications while we remain focused on dermatology," said Shawn O'Brien, president & CEO of Cipher. "We will continue to pursue opportunities to monetize our commercial products and product candidates in regions and indications that are not on our strategic roadmap."

Dr. Michael Brooks, VP of Corporate Development at Edesa, added, "We are very excited to work with Cipher and to explore the utility of ASF-1096 in anorectal indications."

Specific terms of the agreement were not disclosed.