The drug, PF-04548043, is a selective and potent motilin receptor agonist being developed for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and potentially other gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. The phase I clinical trial is designed to test the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of PF-04548043 in healthy subjects.
In December 2006, Kosan Biosciences and Pfizer established a worldwide license agreement for Kosan’s motilin agonist program, including PF-04548043 (formerly known as KOS-2187) and related compounds, in a transaction potentially valued at $250 million for the successful development and commercialization of PF-04548043 for one indication as well as royalties on worldwide sales.
Robert Johnson, Kosan’s president and CEO, said: “Consistent with Kosan’s focus on oncology, we successfully out-licensed KOS-2187 and our motilin receptor agonist program to Pfizer, a company with a strong gastrointestinal capability that could best exploit its therapeutic and commercial potential. We appreciate Pfizer’s commitment to the development and potential commercialization of this promising prokinetic compound and look forward to its rapid advancement through the clinic.”