Basilea buys rights to Aspergillus mold infections candidate

Swiss drugmaker Basilea Pharmaceutica (SIX: BSLN) has entered into an asset purchase agreement with privately owned US firm Gravitas Therapeutics for GR-2397, a clinical-stage antifungal compound with a novel mechanism of action, targeting invasive mold infections caused by Aspergillus species.

The asset will add to Basilea’s portfolio of two key anti-infective products, Cresemba (isavuconazole) and Zevtera (ceftobiprole).

Now dubbed BAL2062, GR-2397) is a first-in-class antifungal, derived from a natural product, and has demonstrated fungicidal activity against clinically important molds such as Aspergillus spp., including azole-resistant strains. Safety and tolerability have been demonstrated in a previously completed phase 1 study with single and multiple ascending intravenous (iv) doses. The drug candidate has Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP), Orphan Drug and Fast Track designation from the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for invasive aspergillosis.