GI Dynamics, a weight loss product manufacturer based in Lexington, Massachusetts, announced a new partnership with Medtronic and GlaxoSmithKline. The new partnership will be used to accelerate research of the company’s EndoBarrier intestinal liner.

According to a press release by the company, Medtronic will assist GI Dynamics in studying how its EndoBarrier system impacts continuous glucose levels. GSK will assist GI Dynamics in researching hormonal changes following implantation of the system.

Andy Levine is the CTO and founder of GI Dynamics. In prepared remarks, he said, "We are pleased to be collaborating with two of the world's leading diabetes development companies – Medtronic in the device segment and GSK in the pharmaceutical sector."

According to the press release, additional details of the new partnership are confidential. The EndoBarrier device is a specialized gut-lining sleeve that attaches to the intestine and stomach. According to 13 different clinical studies comprising 500 patients, the device can help patients improve blood glucose management and reduce body mass by 20 percent over a year. EndoBarrier received CE Mark clearance from the E.U. in 2010.

On a final note, Levine said, "We expect these collaborations will lead to a better understanding of the [mechanism of action] of EndoBarrier and may lead to improvements in the device, as well as potential combinations of drug treatment and EndoBarrier Therapy to optimize patient outcomes."

References

www.gidynamics.com/media-press-releases.php