Roche links up with Meiji and Fedora to tackle antibiotic resistance
Will develop early stage beta-lactamase inhibitor called OP0595
Swiss drugmaker Roche has signed a licensing agreement with Meiji Seika Pharma (Meiji) of Japan and Fedora of Canada to develop a beta-lactamase inhibitor that is currently in Phase 1 development.
Roche has obtained worldwide rights to the product, called OP0595, from both companies, with the exception of Japan, where Meiji will retain sole rights.
The combination of OP0595 with a beta-lactam antibiotic targets severe infections caused by Enterobacteriaceae, including multi-drug-resistant strains.
Under the terms of the agreement, Meiji and Fedora will receive upfront plus development, regulatory and sales milestone payments totalling potentially up to US$750m. They are also entitled to receive tiered royalties on sales of products originating from this collaboration.
This beta-lactamase inhibitor has the potential for an expanded spectrum against multi-drug resistant bacteria
Roche said the beta-lactam class of antibiotics, which includes penicillins, cephalosporins, monobactams and carbapenems, contributes an estimated 65% of global antibiotic sales. But their effectiveness is threatened by rising bacterial resistance caused by beta-lactamase enzymes.
Janet Hammond, Head of Infectious Diseases for Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, said there is an urgent need for new antibiotics able to combat the increasing resistance to antibiotics that is being seen worldwide.
'Roche has a strong legacy in antibiotics and this collaboration demonstrates we are continuing to execute on our commitment,' she said.
'This beta-lactamase inhibitor has the potential for an expanded spectrum against multi-drug resistant bacteria and could be a much needed option for patients suffering from difficult-to-treat infections.'
