RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (Nasdaq: RDHL); TASE: RDHL) has expanded its late clinical-stage gastrointestinal-focused pipeline by licensing Mesupron, an oncology drug targeting gastrointestinal and other solid tumor cancers, from Wilex AG
Mesupron has completed several Phase I and Phase II clinical studies, including a Phase II proof of concept study in locally advanced non-metastatic pancreatic cancer. The drug demonstrated safety and tolerability, suggesting activity as measured by both tumor response rate and overall survival when administered in combination with first-line chemotherapeutic agents
Mesupron, a small molecule uPA inhibitor administered by oral capsule, presents a new non-cytotoxic approach to cancer therapy with several potential mechanisms of action to inhibit both tumor metastasis and growth.
RedHill CEO Dror Ben-Asher said, "The acquisition of Mesupron reflects our commitment to patients suffering from gastrointestinal and inflammatory diseases, including related cancers such as pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer and colorectal cancer. It adds to RedHill's pipeline of six late clinical-stage drug candidates and fits well with our risk-mitigating business model."
Under the terms of the agreement, RedHill acquired the exclusive development and commercialization rights to Mesupron, excluding China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macao, for all indications. RedHill will pay WILEX an upfront payment of $1 million and potential royalties on net revenue of up to 30%. RedHill will be responsible for all development, regulatory and commercialization of Mesupron.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on June 30, 2014
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