Starton Therapeutics Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company, has entered into a collaboration agreement with Bend Bioscience, an innovation, science, and pharmaceutical services partner. Under this agreement, Bend will provide drug delivery R&D support and manufacturing capabilities for Starton’s lead candidate, STAR-LLD, a proprietary oral sustained-release dosage form of lenalidomide.

While the branded lenalidomide product remains a cornerstone treatment for multiple myeloma, the approved oral formulation of the drug is associated with hematologic side effects in some patients. By giving less drug continuously, STAR-LLD may improve the therapeutic index of lenalidomide allowing for better treatment outcomes.

Starton is entering this strategic partnership based on Bend’s expertise in controlled release formulation, manufacturing process, and analytical method development, as well as clinical and commercial manufacturing of solid oral dosage forms. Under the agreement, Bend will develop an optimized oral STAR-LLD tablet by leveraging and building upon Starton’s intellectual property and deep understanding of delivering lenalidomide on a continuous basis from prior clinical trials. The collaboration will focus on enhancing the product’s performance and scalability, with Bend leading the scale-up and commercial manufacturing efforts.

“Bend’s proven expertise in formulation and manufacturing complements our innovation and understanding of how to reduce toxicity and improve efficacy of lenalidomide and we’re eager to partner with them,” said Andy Rensink, Starton’s Chief Manufacturing Officer.

“Bend Bioscience is committed to improving patients’ lives by delivering innovative drug products,” added Owen Murray, CEO of Bend. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to supporting our partners from early development through commercial production. Our reputation for progressing medicines to clinical and commercial manufacturing is a testament of our commitment to strong science, exceptional quality, and positive outcomes for our customers and their patients. We are excited to be a part of Starton’s story, and to see STAR-LLD potentially reach patients in need.”