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Bone Biologics (BB) entered into an exclusive license agreement with UCLA for global application of NELL-1/DBX® recombinant human protein growth factor through a technology transfer. BB’s initial focus for NELL-1 is as a bone graft substitute for spine fusion. Researchers are examining its ability to systemically restore bone and prevent further loss.
BB has expanded its Field of Use definition in its license agreement with UCLA. In short, this refers to an agreement entered in 2006 that has since received numerous amendments. It provides BB with exclusive license to several UCLA patents covering enhanced NELL-1 bone mineralization. A tenth amendment granted BB the rights, after completing certain milestones, to negotiate an expanded Field of Use to include treatment of osteoporosis. As of May 2017, all milestones were met and negotiations commenced.
Now, BB and UCLA will study the application of NELL-1 as a platform technology for use in spinal fusion, trauma and osteoporosis, focusing first on fusion. FDA guidance indicates that that NELL-1/DBX will be classified as a combination product, with a device lead.
Bone Biologics is a development-stage company, helmed by Stephen LaNeve as President and Chief Executive Officer since 2015. Mr. LaNeve’s leadership roles reflect experience as CEO and President of Etex and President of Medtronic Spine and Biologics.
