The study will assess the safety and efficacy profile of a once-daily oral combination regimen comprising Bristol-Myers’ investigational NS5A replication complex inhibitor daclatasvir and Merck’s investigational NS3/4A protease inhibitor MK-5172.
Merck Research Laboratories infectious diseases project leadership and management vice president Eliav Barr said the potential of novel oral HCV regimens early in the development cycle can be evaluated through agreements that combine novel investigational candidates.
"We are pleased to collaborate with Bristol-Myers Squibb to advance this potential all-oral combination," Barr added.
A Phase I study evaluating safety of the investigational combination regimen is followed by the planned initiation of the Phase II trial.
The deal does not cover clinical development activities beyond the Phase II study.