The xdiscover library is a proprietary collection of more than 2000 primarily venom-derived peptides and is the result of a unique genomics capability that allows for the highly efficient discovery of novel peptides from cone snail venom tissue.
Xenome said that the decision to exercise this option follows a research license agreement announced in January 2009, under which MedImmune gained access to Xenome’s Xdiscover venom peptide library to exclusively screen for drug candidates against two undisclosed targets involved in key pain pathways.
The financial terms of the licenses remain confidential, however Xenome will be eligible to receive undisclosed milestone and royalty payments associated with the ongoing development of product candidates derived from the peptides.
Ian Nisbet, CEO of Xenome, said: “Xenome is pleased with the ongoing interest in its discovery platform. We look forward to realising the potential of this collaboration with MedImmune.”