The investigational compound entered Phase I clinical development in 2006 and, although generally well tolerated, was discontinued as the product profile is unsuitable for further development, said Karo Bio.
A back up compound has been approved for entry into preclinical development.
The collaboration with Merck targets estrogen receptors with the aim to develop new treatments in the field of women’s health care. The collaboration is based on the discovery of the estrogen receptor beta, which offers the potential for the development of selective drugs that can target either the alpha-receptor or the beta-receptor.
The joint discovery phase concluded in 2002, with Merck responsible for development of selected compounds. Merck covers all development costs and has rights to marketing and sales. Karo Bio has rights to milestones when the project reaches important development stages and to royalties on future sales.
“It is unfortunate that the clinical candidate in the joint collaboration with Merck has been discontinued. However, this is part of the drug development process and we are pleased with Merck’s commitment to the program and to the fact that the set back is not related to the mechanism of action or the treatment concept”, says Per Olof Wallstrom, president of Karo Bio.