Dogwood Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: DWTX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for pain and neuropathy, has announced a transformative licensing agreement with Serpin Pharma, Inc. This all-stock transaction grants Dogwood Therapeutics a global, royalty-free license to develop and commercialize SP16, a first-in-class LRP1 agonist, as a treatment for cancer-related pain (CRP) and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN).
SP16, an intravenous (IV) formulation developed by Serpin Pharma, is derived from the active portion of alpha-1-antitrypsin (A1AT), which exhibits both anti-inflammatory and neural repair properties. These unique characteristics position SP16 as a promising candidate to address the debilitating symptoms of CIPN, a condition that affects countless cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
The forthcoming Phase 1b study of SP16, fully funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), is set to begin patient enrollment in the first half of 2026. This funding underscores the significant unmet medical need and the innovative potential of SP16 in treating CIPN.
SP16 complements Dogwood’s lead development candidate, Halneuron®, a NaV1.7-specific sodium channel inhibitor currently in Phase 2b trials for chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain (CINP). Halneuron® has already demonstrated significant pain reduction in previous studies and has been granted fast-track designation by the FDA. Interim data from the ongoing Phase 2b trial, which has enrolled over 80 patients, is expected in December 2025.
The combination of SP16’s anti-inflammatory and neural repair capabilities with Halneuron®’s pain-reducing properties offers a potentially synergistic approach to managing CIPN. This dual-mechanism strategy could not only alleviate pain but also address nerve damage and functional complications caused by chemotherapy.
Greg Duncan, CEO of Dogwood Therapeutics, emphasized the strategic importance of the SP16 license:
“This agreement aligns perfectly with our mission to expand our research pipeline in areas where we can make a meaningful impact. The NCI’s funding of the SP16 Phase 1b program allows us to advance this promising candidate without immediate capital investment, creating value for both patients and shareholders.”
Dr. Cohava Gelber, CEO of Serpin Pharma, expressed confidence in Dogwood’s ability to bring SP16 to market:
“After evaluating potential partners, we believe Dogwood’s expertise in pain and neuropathy management makes them the ideal team to advance SP16 as a treatment for cancer-related pain.”
Dr. Mike Gendreau, Chief Medical Officer of Dogwood Therapeutics, highlighted the broader implications of the SP16 program:
“SP16 has the potential to address a wide range of CIPN symptoms while also promoting nerve repair. This adds significant value to our portfolio and strengthens our commitment to improving the lives of cancer patients.”
Under the terms of the agreement, Serpin Pharma will receive 382,034 shares of Dogwood’s common stock and 179.1878 shares of a new series of non-voting convertible preferred stock. Together, these shares represent 7.31% of Dogwood’s common stock on a fully diluted basis, subject to stockholder approval for the conversion of preferred shares.
Tungsten Advisors served as the exclusive financial advisor to Dogwood Therapeutics, with Duane Morris LLP providing legal counsel. Rimon Law represented Serpin Pharma in the transaction.
Webcast Presentation
Dogwood Therapeutics will host a webcast today, September 29, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the transaction. A replay will be available on the company’s investor website following the presentation.
About Dogwood Therapeutics
Dogwood Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing non-opioid treatments for pain and fatigue-related disorders. Its lead candidate, Halneuron®, is a highly specific NaV1.7 sodium channel modulator that has shown significant efficacy in reducing pain associated with cancer and chemotherapy. The company’s research pipeline also includes SP16, a first-in-class LRP1 agonist with potential applications in CIPN and other neuropathic conditions.
With this latest licensing agreement, Dogwood Therapeutics continues to solidify its position as a leader in the development of innovative, non-opioid pain management solutions.
For more information please visit www.dwtx.com
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