CRO

Synteract acquires Cu-Tech to build contract dermatology center

Synteract has snapped up specialty contract researcher Cu-Tech, with plans to establish a dedicated center for the development of dermatology products and make the midsized, global CRO into a destination for skin-care clinical trials.

Mountain Lakes, New Jersey-based Cu-Tech has managed more than 130 dermatology trials over the past two decades, covering a variety of indications. The financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed.

“The acquisition of Cu-Tech represents the next step in our strategy to specialize in targeted areas of clinical development,” described Synteract CEO Steve Powell in a statement. Synteract itself has conducted over 120 dermatologic trials including more than 17,000 patients.

“Dermatology is poised for continued strong growth, and in acquiring Cu-Tech, we have created a leading CRO for dermatological services and site connections,” Powell said.

Dermatology will serve as Synteract’s fifth specialty area, alongside oncology, pediatrics, neurodegenerative diseases and rare and orphan diseases. The company plans to support Cu-Tech’s team in its current form, Powell said.

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“Working with Synteract allows us to bring enhanced capabilities to our clients, including an international presence,” said Kathleen Ashenfelter, executive director of operations and development at Cu-Tech, who will lead the new dermatology center.

In addition, the Carlsbad, California-based Synteract will provide support services in feasibility, biostatistics, clinical operations, data management, medical writing and regulatory expertise, the company said.

Synteract recalibrated and rebranded itself into separate centers of therapeutic development and specialty areas this past April.

“For nearly three decades we have been guiding virtual, emerging, and mid-sized biopharma companies across the continuum of phase 1-4 clinical studies with services that address their specific needs,” Chief Commercial Officer Jack Shannon said at the time. “By more clearly delineating our attention on these growing development areas we have a real opportunity to expand our presence in the mid-market space and drive Synteract’s commercial success.”