Endo International plc’s subsidiary Endo Ventures Limited has entered into agreements with Quoin Pharmaceuticals Inc. for the development, registration, supply, commercialization and distribution of QRX003 on an exclusive basis in Canada. If the product is approved, Paladin Labs Inc., an operating company of Endo, will be responsible for all commercial activities in Canada.
 
QRX003 is Quoin’s lead product for Netherton syndrome. A form of ichthyosis, Netherton syndrome is a rare hereditary skin disorder caused by a mutation in the SPINK5 gene (serine protease inhibitor, Kazal Type 5) that leads to severe skin barrier defects and recurring infections, as well as a pronounced predisposition to allergies, asthma and eczema. Patients also often suffer from severe dehydration, chronic skin inflammation and stunted growth.¹
 
There is currently no cure or satisfactory treatment option available for Netherton syndrome.²
 
“We’re pleased to help bring this potential treatment to appropriate pediatric patients,” said Livio Di Francesco, vice president and general manager of Paladin. “One of our company’s strategic priorities is to be a force for good, and we hope that QRX003 can help families coping with this rare disease.”
 
Paladin currently expects to launch the product in 2025 in Canada.
 
References:
¹ Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. (November 2021). Netherton syndrome. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/7182/netherton-syndrome. Accessed on July 1, 2022.
² Saleem H, Shahid M, Shahbaz A, et al. (July 30, 2018) Netherton Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of Literature. Cureus 10(7): e3070. DOI 10.7759/cureus.3070