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CHARLOTTE, NC. – September 12, 2012 – Metro Charlotte-based Ei, A Pharmaceutical SolutionWorks™ has signed agreements with European-based professors and technologists for the exclusive worldwide license of a novel class of sphingolipids. Sphingolipids are found in the extracellular spaces of the stratum corneum, where they play a critical role in strengthening the barrier function of the skin, promoting moisture retention and increasing elasticity of the skin.
The specific technology consists of a novel lamellar lipid topically delivered through a custom formulation system. In preliminary clinical studies, the technology has demonstrated significantly better barrier function with substantial improvement in moisture retention when compared to commercially available sphingolipid compounds. As part of this exclusive licensing arrangement, Ei has been granted options on several related technologies in various stages of development.
“As A Pharmaceutical SolutionWorks™, this investment in intellectual property demonstrates Ei’s mission to offer our customers value beyond typical development and manufacturing capability,” said Michael Kane, CEO, Ei. “Our customers have asked for – and we are responding with – unique, efficacious and highly protected ways to innovate for their customers and enhance the value of their brands.”
Ei provides product development, analytical and clinical services to develop solutions for Rx pharmaceutical, OTC, therapeutic skin care, topical (semi-solid and liquid) and animal health products.
“We are pleased to have been able to partner Ei with a unique group of specialists to develop this important advancement in skincare,” shared David Yurkerwich, Vice President at Charles River Associates, the consulting firm which helped to broker the licensing agreement. “The group was attracted to Ei’s topical expertise and valuable network of strategic partners to commercialize the assets.”
Ei’s research and development team takes an integrated approach to product development and management. This strategic approach creates high-technology solutions for their customers and allows Ei to utilize its full network of resources and assets for successful product creation. Ei prides itself on not just the cutting-edge science and state-of-the-art manufacturing expertise of its people, but the protection and strengthening of each individual customer’s brand. This European license illustrates Ei’s continued commitment to seeking out intellectual property opportunities for their customers.
About Ei
Based in metro Charlotte, North Carolina, Ei, A Pharmaceutical SolutionWorks™ develops and manufactures topical liquid, semi-solid and loose powder lines for Rx, OTC, therapeutic skin care and animal health products for a wide range of brands. The company operates 180,000 square feet of state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. Ei offers topical drug product expertise and turn-key project management including formula development, package sourcing, testing, method development, validation, ICH stability programs, bulk manufacturing, filling and regulatory filing assistance. Ei represents over 50 customers with a strong concentration of multi-national, top-tier pharmaceutical and therapeutic skin care companies and other Fortune 100 companies. Ei is privately held and was founded in 1983. www.eisolutionworks.com
About Charles River Associates (CRA)
Charles River Associates® is a global consulting firm specializing in litigation, regulatory, and financial consulting, and management consulting. CRA advises clients on economic and financial matters pertaining to litigation and regulatory proceedings, and guides corporations through critical business strategy and performance-related issues. Since 1965, clients have engaged CRA for its unique combination of functional expertise and industry knowledge, and for its objective solutions to complex problems. Headquartered in Boston, CRA has offices throughout the world. Detailed information about Charles River Associates, a registered trade name of CRA International, Inc., is available at www.crai.com.
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Contact: Kendria Sweet, 704.533.3796, [email protected]