Evotec initiates Phase I clinical studies of anti-inflammatory drug

The first Phase I study is a double-blind and placebo-controlled single ascending dose study in healthy male volunteers to evaluate the compound’s safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetic profile and pharmacodynamic effects after oral administration.

The P2X7 receptor is an ATP-gated ion channel primarily expressed on cells of the immune system and is thought to play an important role in inflammatory processes through the regulation of a number of proinflammatory cytokines.

P2X7 receptor antagonism may provide a novel approach to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, which affect millions of individuals, the company said.

Michael Kelly, president of Renovis, Evotec’s US subsidiary, said: “We are extremely pleased to announce the achievement of this second important clinical milestone at our US site following its integration into Evotec earlier in 2008. The initiation of Phase I studies with our P2X7 receptor antagonist is the culmination of the efforts of many of our dedicated R&D staff over the past few years and we have high expectations as we progress further into development.”