In preclinical studies, Heat Shock Protein 90 (Hsp90) and the Hedgehog pathway appear to be implicated in the growth and survival of a broad range of blood-related and solid tumor types. IPI-504, the most advanced of the drug candidates included in the agreement, is an Hsp90 inhibitor that has thus far been studied in two disease-focused phase I trials.
“In collaboration with Infinity, we plan to accelerate development of the intravenous formulation of IPI-504, as well as to expand into additional tumor types,” commented Edward Mathers, MedImmune’s executive vice president of corporate development. “In addition, we expect to be able to commence clinical testing of the next generation oral formulation of IPI-504, as well as an oral formulation of a hedgehog inhibitor within the next 12 to 18 months”
Under the terms of the agreement, MedImmune and Infinity will share equally all costs and profits from the development and commercialization of any future products.
MedImmune will provide Infinity a one-time upfront payment of $70 million for co-exclusive, shared rights to the Hsp90 and Hedgehog pathway product development programs. In addition, Infinity could receive up to an additional $430 million in milestone payments related to the companies’ achieving certain late-stage clinical development and sales targets for any future products resulting from the collaboration.