Oslo, Norway—Aker BioMarine has entered into a partnership with Acasti Pharma Inc., wherein Aker will supply krill oil as the core ingredient of a new hypertriglyceridemia drug, CaPre, a highly purified omega-3 phospholipid concentrate, according to a press release.

The agreement ensures an adequate raw krill oil supply to meet Acasti’s needs, including the anticipated scale-up of production prior to the drug’s commercial launch. Acasti was granted certain intellectual property rights. The parties have agreed to contemplate future commercial collaborations.
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Tim de Haas, EVP Human Health & Nutrition at Aker, said in the release: “We are excited to partner with Acasti to support the commercialization of the first ever krill oil-based prescription drug product, which we believe has genuine potential to become the best-in-class omega-3 therapeutic for the management of cardiometabolic disorders. We look forward to continue working with their team on supply initiatives to support this product’s path to market.”

Pierre Lemieux, Ph.D., COO/CSO of Acasti, added: “Aker BioMarine produces high quality krill oil, which is sustainably harvested and has been certified by the Marine Stewardship Council. This supply agreement secures a reliable source of high-quality starting material for CaPre, which we expect will meet our near-term commercial growth aspirations. In addition, we have plans to leverage Aker BioMarine’s expertise and look forward to collaborating on future projects together.”

The drug is in the final stages of testing prior to FDA application and approval.