Vernalis looking to outlicense anti-inflammatory drug handed back by Merck Serono

Licensing opportunity

The UK biotech Vernalis plc is looking for a new home for a Phase II anti-inflammatory drug, after all rights to the portfolio of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors were handed back by from Merck Serono SA. The compounds were originally part of a licensing agreement between the Vernalis and Serono, dating back to before Merck acquired the Swiss biotech.

The lead compound, V85546 a selective MMP-12 inhibitor, has completed Phase I clinical trials. The compound was returned to Vernalis with a full data package, which includes extensive supporting pharmacology data for a broad range of indications, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple sclerosis.

Vernalis is determining the optimal development programme and is looking for a new collaborative agreement to take the compound into Phase II.