Yabao Pharmaceuticals enters second collaboration with Eli Lilly
To develop Lilly's sodium-glucose linked transporter inhibitor (SGLT1) molecule which has completed pre-clinical development
Chinese pharmaceutical firm Yabao Pharmaceutical has signed a second agreement with Eli Lilly to co-develop a diabetes drug.
The two firms will develop Lilly's sodium-glucose linked transporter inhibitor (SGLT1) molecule, which has completed a Phase I study in Singapore, in addition to extensive pre-clinical development.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
In July 2014, Lilly and Yabao announced the co-development of Lilly's glucokinase activator (GKA), LY2608204.
Inhibition of intestinal SGLT1 is a promising therapeutic approach for diabetes because it acts independently of the beta cell and may therefore be effective in both early-stage and advanced stages of the disease. The reduction in both glucose and insulin may improve the metabolic state and potentially the health of the beta cells in the absence of body weight gain or hypoglycaemia. Its complementary mechanism could be effective when used in combination with other important diabetes drugs.
Under the terms of the agreement, Yabao will receive the rights to develop and commercialise the SGLT1 compound in China, while Lilly retains rights in all other markets. The firms will collaborate to determine a development plan for China, and Yabao will initially be responsible for carrying out and funding all development. Lilly retains future buy-in options for China.
