Myriad Pharmaceuticals has identified an Investigational New Drug (IND) candidate targeting a novel molecular target, the protein kinase IKK epsilon. Reportedly, Myriad Pharmaceuticals’ IKK epsilon antagonist and IND candidate, MPI-0485520, is a selective and potent inhibitor of IKK epsilon, with oral bioavailability and demonstrated on-target, in vitro and in vivo biological activity.
Myriad Pharmaceuticals has said that the IKK epsilon program was originally launched to exploit the potential of IKK epsilon as a novel oncology target. Published reports and internal research at Myriad Pharmaceuticals have demonstrated that IKK epsilon expression is amplified in human breast, ovarian and prostate tumor cells. Overexpression of IKK epsilon transforms cells in culture and conversely, reduction of IKK epsilon expression or inhibition of activity inhibits tumor cell growth.
Adrian Hobden, president and CEO of Myriad Pharmaceuticals, said: “MPI-0485520 represents a potential very large commercial opportunity for Myriad Pharmaceuticals. IKK epsilon is, perhaps, the most exciting new target for the treatment of obesity and diabetes that has emerged in the last ten years. It was opportune that Myriad Pharmaceuticals’ scientists have developed expertise with this important target and have been studying MPI-0485520 for some time.”