AstraZeneca and Merck & Co to investigate novel combination anticancer regimen

Published: 2-Jun-2009

Drugmakers AstraZeneca and Merck & Co are to collaborate on the development of a novel combination anticancer regimen composed of two investigational compounds, MK-2206 from Merck and AZD6244 from AstraZeneca.


Drugmakers AstraZeneca and Merck & Co are to collaborate on the development of a novel combination anticancer regimen composed of two investigational compounds, MK-2206 from Merck and AZD6244 from AstraZeneca.

Preclinical evidence indicates that combined administration of these compounds could enhance their anticancer properties.

Astra Zeneca and Merck will work together to evaluate co-administration of the compounds in a Phase I clinical trial for the treatment of solid cancer tumours. All development costs will be shared jointly.

In preclinical studies, AZD6244 has been shown to affect MEK (Mitogen-activated protein kinase 1), an important signal that promotes cancer cell growth and survival. Merck's MK-2206 has demonstrated an effect on AKT (a component of the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase pathway), also an important signal promoting cancer cell survival.

AstraZeneca acquired exclusive worldwide rights to AZD6244 from Array Biopharma in December 2003.

"There is strong scientific rationale to suggest that the potential benefit to cancer patients of this combination may far exceed the sum of the parts," said Gary Gilliland, senior vice president and franchise head of oncology at Merck Research Laboratories.

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