GlaxoSmithKline acquires preclinical PPAR-gamma modulators from Bayer's osteoporosis research programme
London and Leverkusen, February 18, 2002 -- GlaxoSmithKline PLC (GSK) and Bayer AG today announce that they have entered into an agreement whereby GSK has purchased the rights to a Bayer preclinical development programme of PPAR- gamma modulators. Bay 54-9801, targeted for entry into the clinic in early 2003, has yielded exciting results in animal models of osteoporosis, demonstrating the formation of new bone. In addition, these compounds, which have a novel spectrum of activity at the PPAR-gamma receptor distinct from existing PPAR-gamma agonists, may have utility in a number of other important diseases, including diabetes.
Under the terms of the agreement GSK will receive patents and worldwide development and marketing rights for Bay 54-9801 and related compounds from Bayer's preclinical programme. Bayer will retain the right to claim certain compounds for its own use in the fields of cardiovascular and oncology.
"We are excited by this opportunity to build on an area of scientific strength at GSK by adding Bayer's novel PPAR-gamma modulator programme to our own expertise. Therapeutic intervention with these innovative compounds has the potential to enhance bone formation in osteoporosis, rather than affect bone loss which is targeted by current therapies", said Ken Batchelor, Senior Vice President of the Metabolic, Musculoskeletal and Viral Diseases Centre for Excellence in Drug Discovery at GSK.
"We are pleased that GlaxoSmithKline, an ideal partner in the PPAR field, will develop Bay 54-9801 in important indications such as osteoporosis. This is a further example of Bayer's strategy to focus on its key strengths and to capitalize on our strong research platform by forming partnerships with other companies" said Prof. Wolfgang Hartwig, Executive Vice President and Head of International Research at Bayer's Pharmaceuticals Business Group.
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