Dr Reddy's Laboratories, alongside its division Aurigene Pharmaceutical Services, has entered into a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) with US-based Kainomyx to co-develop and co-commercialise an affordable anti-malarial drug.

The collaboration aims to address the needs of patients in Europe, the US, and low and middle-income countries.

The MoU, which is pending a definitive agreement, outlines a shared commitment to driving a comprehensive research and development agenda.

By leveraging the unique strengths of each partner, the collaboration will expedite the development programme for this new anti-malarial treatment.

Kainomyx will offer a platform that targets the cytoskeletal proteins of parasites, representing a new mechanism of action in the fight against malaria.

Dr.Reddy’s Laboratories API [active pharmaceutical ingredients] and services CEO Deepak Sapra said: “Public health and access is a strategic area for us and malaria continues to be a very important disease that needs innovative as well as affordable medicines.

“The MoU with Kainomyx is a promising step in that direction and towards improving global health outcomes and delivering on Dr Reddy’s vision to reach 1.5 billion patients by 2030.”

Kainomyx will spearhead the technical strategy and manage the drug discovery and clinical phases.

Aurigene will concentrate on the development of cost-effective and scalable drug chemistry solutions.

Dr Reddy's will contribute its expertise in regulatory compliance and market access to ensure the drug reaches those in need.

Kainomyx executive chairman James Spudich stated: “Through our decades of work, we have developed a deep understanding of how cytoskeletal proteins work. Cytoskeletal proteins are essential for all living organisms, and we are exploiting this to specifically target the cytoskeleton for the treatment of malaria.

“I am delighted that in our molecules’ journey to market we will be forming a partnership with Dr Reddy’s and Aurigene who have demonstrated their experience and expertise through their work in public health.”

In June 2024, Aurigene Pharmaceutical Services opened a new biologics facility at Genome Valley in the Indian city of Hyderabad.