Firm will begin Phase II trials in certain hematological and solid tumor indications.
Syndax Pharmaceuticals gained worldwide rights to Bayer Schering Pharma’s Phase I anticancer candidate. MS-275, is a selective histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi). The compound, now called SNDX-275, becomes Syndax’ lead product candidate.
“The successful in-licensing of SNDX-275, which has already demonstrated safety, tolerability, and clinical activity, catapults Syndax forward as an oncology drug development company,” comments Syndax president and CEO, Joanna Horobin, M.D.
“There is clinical evidence of the drug’s potential to treat a variety of tumor types in optimized, mechanistically driven combinations with other known cancer therapies,” she points out. “Based on data from 200 patients across various doses and tumor types, we plan to initiate Phase II trials in certain hematological and solid tumor indications where there are significant unmet medical needs and where an accelerated approval may be possible.”
Dr. Horobin added that additional clinical trials with SNDX-275 are expected to begin in late 2007. Syndax also intends to continue the collaboration with the National Cancer Institute previously established by Bayer Schering Pharma.
Under the exclusive licensing agreement, Syndax will develop and commercialize the compound. Bayer Schering Pharma will receive upfront and milestone payments.
