Trimeris and Array Biopharma Sign Antiviral Drug Discovery Agreement
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Trimeris, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRMS) and Array BioPharma Inc. (Nasdaq: ARRY) today announced the signing of an agreement to discover small molecule fusion inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
"Trimeris is blazing a new therapeutic trail with its leadership in the development of fusion inhibitors for the treatment of these viral diseases," said Dani P. Bolognesi, CEO and co-founder, Trimeris. "This collaborative agreement with Array BioPharma will enable Trimeris to supplement its own small molecule research program." Trimeris is currently co-developing two fusion inhibitor peptides, T-20 and T-1249, for the treatment of HIV, in collaboration with F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
Under the terms of the agreement, Trimeris will initially screen a library of small molecule compounds provided by Array against HIV and RSV fusion protein targets. Array will use its drug discovery platform to optimize lead compounds. The companies will collaborate to identify preclinical candidates and Trimeris will be responsible for further development. Array will provide the initial library of compounds on a non-exclusive basis and will work exclusively with Trimeris on the HIV and RSV fusion protein targets during the term of the collaboration. On a non-exclusive basis, Trimeris will work with Array on these targets. Array will be entitled to receive payments and royalties based on achievement of certain developmental and commercial milestones.
"We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with Trimeris to help fully exploit the value of their broadly applicable fusion inhibitor technology," said Kevin Koch, Ph.D., President and Chief Science Officer at Array. "This agreement combines Array’s strength in the structural design of novel small molecule drugs with Trimeris’ expertise in fusion inhibition."
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