Massachusetts' Vascular Nanotransfer Technologies says its nano-carrier-based drug-coated balloon can solve the safety and reliability problems that have plagued similar techs and outperform what's already on the market.
The paclitaxel-coated balloon is designed to treat coronary restenosis and peripheral vascular disease, and, in a large-animal trial, VNT's device achieved tissue levels on par with traditional balloons, all with a lower ratio of drug content to surface area thanks to the company's nano-carrier drug delivery method.
Next, the company plans to kick off patient enrollment in a first-in-man trial in 2013, CEO John Williams said in a statement. There are currently no drug-coated balloons approved for sale in the U.S., Williams said, as the drug-delivery mechanisms currently available carry questions of safety and consistency. VNT's product, however, has the potential to outperform anything on the market overseas, he said.
"VNT's paclitaxel-based balloon for coronary and peripheral vascular applications is designed to have important competitive advantages over today's European [drug-coated balloon] market leaders, such as lower balloon drug surface concentration and particulate counts," Williams said.
The privately held VNT recruited Williams to take the reins last month, and he previously served as CEO of Ovatech, Cappella and Physiometrix.
- read VNT's release