Pfizer to license obesity and diabetes candidates from Bayer
Bayer Pharmaceuticals Corporation (BPC), the US subsidiary of Bayer HealthCare, has granted Pfizer exclusive worldwide rights to its DGAT-1 inhibitors, an innovative class of compounds that modify lipid metabolism.
Bayer Pharmaceuticals Corporation (BPC), the US subsidiary of Bayer HealthCare, has granted Pfizer exclusive worldwide rights to its DGAT-1 inhibitors, an innovative class of compounds that modify lipid metabolism.
The lead compound in the class, BAY 74-4113, is a potential treatment for obesity, type 2 diabetes and other related disorders. The compound is currently in Phase I clinical development.
"Obesity and diabetes are expanding hand-in-hand at near epidemic levels throughout the world. The need for new treatment options for patients has never been greater," said Martin Mackay, senior vice-president, worldwide research & technology for Pfizer. "We are excited about the potential of the DGAT-1 inhibitors in the areas of obesity and type 2 diabetes which complement Pfizer's ongoing metabolic disease research programs."
An estimated 194m people have either type 1 or 2 diabetes, according to the International Diabetes Federation. The World Health Organization estimates that by 2025 the number of people with diabetes will exceed the current US population.
Under the terms of the agreement, Bayer will receive an upfront fee, milestone payments and royalties on sales of any compounds successfully commercialized. Specific financial terms were not disclosed.
The agreement is subject to approval under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 and is expected to close in the second half of 2006.