Marvel Biosciences has selected Novotech as the Contract Research Organisation (CRO) for the company’s upcoming phase-I for its lead drug candidate MB-204. Novotech is an internationally recognised full service CRO based in Australia, that was awarded the 2025 Global Biotechnology Contract Research Organisation Company of the Year by Frost & Sullivan in recognition of its innovation, client-focused delivery and global impact.

“Having previously worked with Novotech on multiple clinical programmes, I am pleased to be working with Novotech again. Australia is an attractive place to conduct first-in-man studies owing to their favourable regulatory environment and tax credits exceeding 40 percent of the costs incurred there,” said Dr. Mark Williams, CSO, Marvel Biosciences.

MB-204 is Marvel’s patented neuroactive adenosine A2A antagonist that has completed cGMP synthesis and four-week GLP toxicological studies. It is being developed for neurodevelopmental disorders such as Rett syndrome and Fragile X with the potential to treat autism spectrum disorder and depression.

Selecting a leading Australian CRO positions the company to accelerate its phase-I programme through a streamlined regulatory pathway with significant cost efficiencies, maximising capital while maintaining world-class clinical standards. Partnering with Novotech marks a pivotal inflection point for the company, signaling MB-204’s transition into human trials and reinforcing confidence in its potential to deliver value in underserved neurodevelopmental indications.