AZD1446 is a selective modulator of the alpha4beta2 neuronal nicotinic receptor that arose out of a research collaboration conducted by Targacept and AstraZeneca.
As per the research and license agreement, AstraZeneca will take charge of conducting and funding the development and potential commercialization of AZD1446.
The next clinical trial of AZD1446 is expected to be a Phase 2 study as an adjunct treatment to donepezil in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
Targacept president and CEO J Donald deBethizy said AstraZeneca’s decision to invest further in the development of AZD1446 reflects alpha4beta2 NNR mechanism’s potential in Alzheimer’s disease.
"The planned evaluation of AZD1446 as an augmentation treatment in Alzheimer’s disease complements Targacept’s ongoing Phase 2b study of AZD3480 as a monotherapy as we and AstraZeneca strive to provide an effective treatment for this major unmet medical need," deBethizy added.