Pfizer and Taisho finalise agreement for novel schizophrenia drug candidate
US-based Pfizer and Taisho Pharmaceutical Co., of Tokyo, Japan, have signed a definitive agreement for worldwide (excluding Japan) collaboration to research, develop and commercialise TS-032, a new schizophrenia drug candidate discovered by Taisho, currently in pre-clinical development.
US-based Pfizer and Taisho Pharmaceutical Co., of Tokyo, Japan, have signed a definitive agreement for worldwide (excluding Japan) collaboration to research, develop and commercialise TS-032, a new schizophrenia drug candidate discovered by Taisho, currently in pre-clinical development.
Under the definitive licence agreement Taisho will grant exclusive development and commercialisation rights outside Japan for TS-032 to Pfizer. Taisho will receive from Pfizer an initial payment of US$22m (Euro 15m). Taisho will also receive milestone payments tied to progress of development, as well as royalties and milestone payments tied to sales if TS-032 is approved by regulatory authorities and launched.
TS-032 is a novel mGluR (metabotropic glutamate receptor) agonist that may offer a new treatment option for central nervous system disorders. Although the characteristics of mGluR are still only partly understood, it is believed to play a role in the transmission of glutamate and other substances in the brain. Abnormalities in the neurotransmission through mGluR may be one cause for symptoms related to schizophrenia as well as other CNS disorders.
"Pfizer has a long-standing strength in developing and commercialising medications for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses, including Zoloft, Xanax and Geodon," said Dr Martin Mackay, president of Pfizer global research and development. "This agreement highlights our commitment to pursue opportunities that align strategically with our key development priorities and strengthen our pipeline."