Dalton Pharma Services has signed a drug development and manufacturing contract with Ramsey Lake Pharmaceutical Corp. (RLPC) to support toxicology studies for VR23, their novel β2-targeting proteasome inhibitor in development to treat cancer. The agreement includes the synthesis of VR23 by Dalton as well as the development of analytical testing methods and execution of a stability study.

“We are excited to be moving our lead candidate VR23 into these critical toxicology studies with the help of an experienced, cGMP qualified pharmaceutical development partner,” said Sean Thompson, Ramsey Lake Pharma president and chief executive officer. “Dalton brings nearly 30 years of novel drug development and manufacturing experience to our program.”

Ramsey Lake Pharma is a privately held company committed to the development of novel therapies currently focused on proteasome inhibitors that improve cancer care and result in improved patient outcomes. Its lead candidate, VR23, a small molecule cancer therapeutic, shows strong potential as a next generation proteasome inhibitor, inhibiting tumor growth as a single agent. When used in combination with gold-standard anticancer drugs, VR23 can increase efficacy while reducing toxicity. VR23 also shows potential in overcoming drug resistance. The product was developed in the laboratory of Dr. Hoyun Lee of RLPC.

“Dalton is very pleased to be supporting the advancement of this potentially ground-breaking cancer therapeutic,” said Peter Pekos, chief executive officer and president, Dalton Pharma Services. “This is a great opportunity for two Canadian companies to collaborate on developing innovative products that have the potential to dramatically improve the lives of so many cancer patients.”