The Medicines Company has reported the exclusive worldwide licensing of ApoA-I Milano from Pfizer. The company claims that ApoA-I Milano is a naturally occurring variant of a protein found in human high-density lipoprotein (HDL) that has the potential to reverse atherosclerotic plaque development and reduce the risk of coronary events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
As per the agreement, Pfizer is expected to receive an up-front payment of $10m for ApoA-I Milano and will receive additional payments upon the achievement of certain clinical, regulatory and sales milestones up to a total of $410m. Pfizer will also be eligible to receive single-digit royalty payments on worldwide net sales of ApoA-I Milano. The Medicines Company will also pay $7.5m to third parties.
Clive Meanwell, chairman and CEO of The Medicines Company, said: “The acquisition of ApoA-I Milano provides The Medicines Company with a significant asset that fits well within our current areas of business. By mimicking the actions of HDL, ApoA-I Milano has been shown in an early clinical study, published in JAMA, to rapidly reduce the size of atherosclerotic plaques.
“This is an area of cardiovascular medicine that is not yet served by currently available therapies — and the potential to provide disease modification for patients with high risk atheroma and associated acute coronary syndromes represents a major innovation opportunity.”
David Rosen DVM, head of out licensing for Pfizer, said: “We are very pleased to partner with The Medicines Company to advance the ApoA-I Milano program as part of our strategy of out licensing programs that Pfizer no longer pursues internally. The ApoA-I Milano program has the potential to become a valuable and innovative medicine for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
“We look forward to seeing it progress, thanks to The Medicines Company’s experience in conducting large clinical trials in cardiovascular patients as well as their expertise in treating critical and intensive care patients.”