RTP-based Liquidia forms drug-delivery research partnership with Abbott

Research Triangle Park, N.C. — Liquidia Technologies is teaming with drug giant Abbott to develop means of delivering drugs through nanotechnology developed by the privately held RTP startup.

Liquidia has developed a nanotechnology program called PRINT. The process uses nanotechnology to producce thin films that can be used for light management and other uses.

Its technology is based on materials known as fluoropolymers that are liquids at room temperature but cure to transparent solids when exposed to lights. Liquidia has developed a material platform technology called Fluorocur, which enables the mass production of precise and uniform micro-sized and nano-sized particles

The partnership with Abbott will focus on delivery of drugs that are more safe and effective.

Of particular focus in the agreement are so-called siRNA therapeutics. Short-interfering RNA molecules silence and regulate gene activity.

“Delivery has been the most significant hurdle to realizing the broad potential of siRNA therapeutics,” said Liquidia Chief Executive Officer Neal Fowler.

“By combining Abbott’s research and development capabilities with Liquidia’s particle design and delivery expertise, we hope to enable the use of siRNA for therapy and provide more targeted, effective treatment options for cancer patients,” he added.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

Liqudia, which was founded in 2004, utilizes discoveries made by UNC-Chapel Hill Professor Joseph DeSimone and his colleagues.

Liquidia has raised some $22 million in venture capital, including a $16 million round in 2007.