Asterand’s partner BTG to initiate Phase IIa migraine studies

Asterand has reported that its partner BTG plans to advance BGC20-1531, a novel EP4 receptor antagonist for the treatment of migraine headaches, to Phase IIa studies in the second half of 2009. Data from this study is anticipated in the second half of 2010.

If clinical proof of principle is demonstrated in these studies, BTG will seek development partners to conduct Phase IIb and subsequent studies.

In a clinical study recently presented by BTG, BGC20-1531 was shown to be an effective analgesic in both inflammatory and neurogenic pain induced in healthy volunteers. The data from this study provides confidence for the further development of BGC20-1531 for the effective treatment of migraine, said Asterand.

BTG licensed BGC20-1531 from Asterand in January 2006, completed preclinical development and entered the first Phase I trial in January 2008.

Martyn Coombs, Asterand’s CEO, said: We are delighted to see that BGC20-1531 has completed Phase I and is moving through to the next stage of clinical development and with the news that BTG is continuing to progress this program, having recently completed their portfolio review.

The program is a step nearer to becoming an effective treatment for migraineurs and we look forward to seeing the results from Phase IIa. In the meantime, Asterand will continue to seek opportunities for our remaining drug discovery programs and maximize the value of our IP portfolio.