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A novel dermal filler in development for a variety of soft tissue augmentation procedures. |
CLS002 is a novel chitosan-based dermal filler in development for a variety of soft tissue augmentation procedures. Dermal fillers are used for the treatment of fine lines, wrinkles, folds, and other conditions such as scars and facial lipoatrophy.
Treating Age-Related Skin Changes: A Significant Market Opportunity
Our skin changes as we age. As a result of genetics and environmental conditions, such as sun damage, skin begins to appear thinner or more transparent, with less volume, firmness and elasticity. The skin also appears to have more pigmentation, roughness, dryness, sagging and wrinkles as a result of the aging process. Fine lines and wrinkles appear on the upper face on the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes, while lines and folds appear around the nose, lips and mouth.
An increase in the aging population and growing concern about appearance has created a rising demand for treatments to correct the visible signs of aging. Dermal fillers that restore facial volume and contour offer an alternative to invasive surgical procedures for facial rejuvenation. These products are becoming increasingly more accepted by the general population.
In 2005, the global market for dermal fillers was estimated at $442 million, a 25% increase over the prior year. Non-surgical cosmetic procedures are growing at a rate 3 times faster than surgical procedures. The global market for dermal fillers is expected to exceed $1 billion in sales within the next 5 years.
Potential Competitive Advantages of CLS002 Dermal Filler
Cutanea believes that CLS002 has the potential to be a safe and cosmetically effective choice for patients and physicians to use in treating folds, wrinkles and other soft tissue conditions. An ideal dermal filler should provide the following properties: immediate results, a lasting, but not permanent effect, natural appearance, minimal discomfort during and after injection, physical convenience, biocompatible and biodegradable. We believe that the proprietary formulation of CLS002 should provide these properties.
We expect that the gelling properties of chitosan will result in a product that will offer an immediate filling effect, while other properties of the proprietary formulation should lead to more lasting aesthetic results. Moreover, the antibacterial properties of the material, along with its biocompatible and bioresorbable features, provide a compelling rationale for the safety and use of CLS002 for a variety of soft tissue augmentation procedures. Cutanea believes that CLS002 will be unique in providing an important combination of safety and efficacy attributes.
Future CLS002 Product Opportunities
The diverse attributes of chitosan provide opportunities to develop CLS002 in a variety of therapeutic indications, each with unmet medical need and each with significant market potential exceeding $100 million. These indications include: burn scars, acne scars, lipoatrophy, vocal cord insufficiency, and urinary incontinence.
