Myriad’s technology using the single R-enantiomer of etodolac, biochemically triggers cellular suicide in lymphocytes. This technology will be used by Salmedix to further its clinical drug candidate SDX-101 and other potential analogs.
In September 2004, Salmedix initiated a phase II clinical trial in which 80 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia will receive a standard chemotherapy regimen alone or in combination with SDX-101 for multiple cycles.
“We are pleased that Myriad’s intellectual property will be used in a non- competitive cancer drug development program which has the potential for further returns to our shareholders in the future,” said Peter Meldrum, president and CEO of Myriad Genetics, Inc.
Earlier this year Salmedix entered a definitive merger agreement with the biopharmaceutical company Cephalon under which it will acquire all of the outstanding capital stock of Salmedix.