DEBRA Research, a non-profit organisation, has partnered with medical dermatology firm LEO Pharma to advance treatments for rare skin diseases.
This non-exclusive partnership aims to boost scouting capabilities and offer additional capacity to speed up the development of life-changing Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) therapies.
Both firms are dedicated to improving the lives of EB patients and their families by delivering new treatments for this serious, currently untreated skin disease.
The collaboration will combine Denmark-based LEO Pharma’s expertise in medical dermatology with DEBRA Research’s focus on patient care.
DEBRA Research managing director Hubert Truebel said: “This collaboration provides an excellent opportunity for us to combine our expertise and resources, enabling us to make meaningful advancements in the battle against EB.
“We are excited about the potential impact of this partnership and look forward to exploring similar opportunities with organisations that share our commitment to delivering life-changing treatments for EB.”
DEBRA Research is focused on advancing research, advocacy, and support for individuals affected by EB. The non-profit organisation operates globally as the research arm of DEBRA Austria.
It focuses on turning scientific discoveries into practical treatments and clinical applications aimed at developing therapies and cures for EB. This rare genetic skin condition causes extreme skin fragility, leading to blisters or tears with minimal touch.
LEO Pharma chief scientific officer and executive vice president Jacob Pontoppidan Thyssen said: “This is exactly the kind of high unmet need, where LEO Pharma strives to develop a treatment solution that can make a fundamental difference for the patients.
“At LEO Pharma, we build partnerships that help us stay on the lookout and contribute our expertise to the next advancements.
“We are proud to collaborate with DEBRA Research, whose vast experience in the pharmaceutical industry and commitment to advancing medical research are invaluable. Together, we can do so much more.”
LEO Pharma is focused on advancing skin care through innovation. Co-owned by the LEO Foundation and Nordic Capital, LEO Pharma offers a broad treatment portfolio.
The dermatology company employs 4,000 people worldwide and generated $1.6bn in net sales in 2023.
In September 2024, LEO Pharma secured European Commission (EC) marketing authorisation for Anzupgo (delgocitinib) cream to treat hand eczema.
