cphi-onlineJanuary 16, 2017
All programs (two promising clinical-stage programs targeting DNA damage and repair, and two novel pre-clinical programs) have first-in-class and best-in-class potential.
Merck has entered into a licensing agreement with Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston, USA, for the worldwide development and commercialization of four promising R&D programs that represent novel approaches to the treatment of cancer.
"With this strategic deal we significantly strengthen our oncology pipeline in two attractive areas where we have leading competence, DNA damage and repair and immuno-oncology—areas which also have promising therapeutic synergy," says Belen Garijo, CEO Healthcare and Member of the Executive Board of Merck. "This deal underscores our commitment to accelerate innovation for cancer patients, and we are excited for the opportunity to build on Vertex's rigorous science and advance these leading programs."
As part of the agreement, Merck will license two clinical-stage programs targeting DNA damage and repair, along with two additional novel pre-clinical programs. Vertex will receive an upfront payment of $230 million, in addition to royalties on future net sales. Merck will assume full responsibility for the development and commercialization of all the programs.
"The Vertex R&D team has produced a portfolio of first-in-class compounds with the potential to enhance the therapy of multiple cancers," said Jeffrey Leiden, Chairman, President and CEO of Vertex. "We are pleased to partner with Merck, a leader in oncology with exciting complementary assets that will help fully realize the value of these unique compounds and accelerate the programs' potential benefits for patients."
The two clinical-stage programs represent first-in-class approaches to inhibit the DNA repair pathways that are fundamental to the survival and proliferation of certain cancers:
The preclinical programs include one immuno-oncology program against an attractive target with first-in-class potential, and a program against a completely novel target. For both of these programs, Vertex research has demonstrated efficacy in relevant preclinical models, including demonstration of combination potential with immune checkpoint inhibition for the immuno-oncology program. Merck will continue to characterize the Vertex compounds in these programs with the goal of taking them forward into the clinic.
The strength of Merck’s oncology R&D program, including a leading presence in immunotherapy and DNA damage and repair, demonstrates how the company is re-imagining the way cancer can be treated.
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