RXi and Hapten enter into licensing agreement for Samcyprone

RNA technology specialist RXi Pharmaceuticals Corp (Nasdaq: RXII) has entered into a global licensing agreement with Hapten Pharmaceuticals for Samcyprone.

This is a proprietary gel formulation of diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP), an immunomodulating agent that initiates T-cell response. While it is not a registered drug, dermatologists use it as a topical immunomodulator to treat dermatological diseases. Samcyprone is expected to show an improved safety and efficacy profile over DPCP, and a Phase IIa trial to evaluate this for viral warts has been completed, with a Phase IIa trial in cutaneous metastases of various cancers are underway.

Hapten will sell and assign RXi certain patent rights and related assets of Samcyprone. Hapten will receive an upfront payment payable in cash and common stock, and will be entitled to receive future milestone payments tied to the achievement of certain clinical and commercial milestones, as well as royalties based on product sales.