Bayer in deal with UK's cancer group to evaluate peptide for gynecological and cancer applications

Bayer Schering Pharma AG, part of Germany's Bayer Group (BAY: DE), has signed an agreement with Cancer Research Technology, the commercial arm of the Cancer Research UK charity, to evaluate new leptin antagonist peptides as potential experimental treatments initially in the area of gynecological diseases, including cancer.

Under the terms of the deal, financial terms of which were not disclosed, Bayer Schering will evaluate the ability of the peptides to switch off the activity of a protein called leptin in a first evaluation phase. After the evaluation period both parties have the option to enter into a license agreement for the technology, the major terms of which have been agreed.

Leptin triggers the growth of different types of cells including endometrial cells and has been linked to angiogenesis ' new blood vessel growth. It is hoped that blocking leptin's action will offer a potential new treatment for a range of cancers and gynaecological diseases.