Nektar and Zelos to develop osteoporosis therapy

Zelos is currently developing an injectable form of Ostabolin-C for the treatment of osteoporosis and has completed three phase I clinical trials.

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) compounds are considered an advance in the treatment of osteoporosis and have been found to stimulate bone formation, increase bone mineral density and reduce the incidence of fractures. However, first-generation PTH compounds have also been shown to stimulate bone resorption, which may be associated with lowered efficacy in reducing fractures at some common fracture sites and an increase in certain side effects.

Zelos’ Ostabolin-C is a next-generation injectable PTH analogue designed to have enhanced therapeutic properties in the treatment of osteoporosis, as compared to first-generation PTH compounds.

Under the terms of the agreement, Nektar will be responsible for development of the formulated dry powder drug and inhalation system, as well as clinical and commercial manufacturing. Zelos will be responsible for supply of the active pharmaceutical ingredient, clinical development and commercialization.

Nektar will receive R&D funding, milestone payments, and royalty payments when the product is commercialized.