IFN-beta is an established treatment for multiple sclerosis; however its short life in human serum necessitates frequent injections for the patient, and has associated side effects.
The next generation of the protein will seek to address these problems by remaining in the body for a longer period of time before breakdown. Nautilus said that it plans to apply for an IND filing by late 2006.
The new protein variants have shown substantially increased resistance to breakdown, and significantly improved pharmacokinetics (bodily reaction) profiles in mice following intravenous and subcutaneous injections, with significantly enhanced half-life in serum and bioavailability.
“A longer half-life in serum, leading to lower frequency of administration and higher patient compliance, is a key feature for any next-generation IFN-beta that will be competitive in the $3bn, post-Tysabri multiple sclerosis market,” said Nautilus CEO Manuel Vega.
“Nautilus’ IFN-beta, with a highly improved pharmacokinetics profile and a minimal change in its molecular structure, is an ideal next-generation product candidate.”