AstraZeneca gains rights to Ardelyx program; GSK returns cUTI candidate GSK2251052 to Anacor

8 October 2012

Anglo-Swedish drug major AstraZeneca (LSE: AZN) this morning announced a worldwide exclusive licensing agreement for closely-held USA-based Ardelyx’ NHE3 inhibitor program, including the Phase II-ready lead compound RDX5791, for the treatment of complications associated with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). NHE3 is the sodium–hydrogen antiporter 3, a protein essential in the absorption of sodium in the intestines.

Under the terms of the deal, AstraZeneca will pay $35 million up front, with development milestones of $237.5 million and milestones related to launch and commercialization, as well as tiered, double-digit royalties. AstraZeneca will assume the subsequent development costs and Ardelyx will conduct clinical trials in Phase II. As part of the transaction, Ardelyx has secured an option to co-promote the product in the USA, subject to agreed limitations. Additional financial details were not disclosed.

Drug also evaluated for IBS-C

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