Pfizer and Bristol-Myers partner for metabolic disorders program

Pfizer's DGAT-1 discovery program includes advanced preclinical compounds with potential applications for the treatment of metabolic disorders, as well as DGAT-1 inhibitors in-licensed by Pfizer from Bayer in June 2006.

Under terms of the agreement, Pfizer will be responsible for all research and early-stage development activities for the metabolic disorders program, and the companies will jointly conduct Phase III development and commercialization activities.

“DGAT-1 inhibitors have shown promise in preclinical testing, and this research program has potential to yield several compounds that may improve treatment options for patients,” said Elliott Sigal, chief scientific officer and president of R&D at Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Triglycerides are the principal component of fat, which is the major repository for storage of metabolic energy in the body. DGAT-1 (diacylglycerol acyl transferase-1) is an enzyme critical to the creation of triglycerides and fat storage. Overweight and obese individuals have significantly greater triglyceride levels, making them more prone to diabetes and its associated metabolic complications.

In studies of obese animals, DGAT-1 inhibitors have been shown to induce weight loss and improve glucose tolerance and lipid levels. The companies say these observations suggest DGAT-1 inhibitors may have the potential to treat obesity, diabetes and dyslipidemia.