Gilead in-licenses MicroDose Therapeutx' MDT-637 for RSV; posts 1st-qtr results

Gilead Sciences (Nasdaq: GILD) and MicroDose Therapeutx have entered into an exclusive worldwide license and collaboration agreement for the development and commercialization of MDT-637, MicroDose's inhalable small molecule antiviral fusion inhibitor for the treatment of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Under the terms of the deal, Gilead will make an undisclosed upfront payment to MicroDose and provide research funding to support MicroDose's continued development of MDT-637 through Phase IIa clinical trials. Gilead can assume full responsibility for clinical development following Phase IIa. MicroDose also could receive additional payments based upon the achievement of certain development, regulatory and commercial milestones, as well as development fees and royalties on future potential net sales.

MDT-637 is a fusion inhibitor that has been shown to block RSV infection in preclinical testing. The product is formulated for pulmonary delivery via MicroDose's proprietary dry powder inhaler, which allows for rapid delivery to the site of infection (in the respiratory tract). MicroDose plans to file the Investigational New Drug reactivation with the US Food and Drug Administration and to initiate a Phase I study this year with MDT-637.