Ortho-McNeil opts to develop Cellzome Alzheimer’s compounds

Cellzome is currently developing a series of small-molecule gamma secretase modulators (GSMs) for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. These compounds are directed towards preventing the formation of toxic amyloid species in the brain responsible for the development of the disease.

Under the terms of the collaboration, Cellzome will receive an additional technology access fee and continued research funding to deliver clinical drug candidates to Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical. Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical R&D (J&JPRD), an affiliate of Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, will supply research support for the discovery research that will be conducted at Cellzome.

Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical will be responsible for development, manufacturing and commercialization of drugs that result from the collaboration.

Tim Edwards, Cellzome’s CEO, said: “I am delighted that Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical has exercised its option over the Cellzome GSM project. In collaboration with J&JPRD, we are working towards identifying clinical candidates, to be tested as potential treatments for this devastating disease.”