ValiRx plc, a life sciences company focused on developing novel treatments for cancer and associated diseases, has confirmed the conclusion of its evaluation agreement with the University of Dundee. The agreement, which centred on assessing a therapeutic small molecule for its potential in oncology, has been brought to an end following a strategic review by ValiRx.
The company stated that the decision was made to allow it to concentrate its resources and efforts on advancing its existing internal pipeline of oncology drug candidates. This move signifies a shift in focus for ValiRx, prioritising its wholly-owned projects over external collaborations for early-stage evaluation.
The collaboration with the University of Dundee aimed to explore the potential of a specific small molecule, identified by researchers at the university, as a new therapeutic agent against cancer. Such evaluation agreements are common in early drug development, allowing biotech companies to assess promising academic research for commercial viability and integration into their own development programmes.
ValiRx has a portfolio of oncology assets, including VAL201 and VAL401, which are in various stages of preclinical and clinical development. The company's strategy often involves identifying and developing therapies that target specific mechanisms within cancer cells, aiming for more effective and less toxic treatments.
While the termination of this specific agreement means one avenue of potential drug development will not proceed under ValiRx's remit, the company's broader commitment to oncology research remains. The University of Dundee is a well-regarded institution for life sciences research, and its work in cancer biology continues to be a significant contributor to the field.