Sam:
Your comments would imply that most projects at companies like Sugen, Ariad, ICOS, Signal Therapeutics, Oncogene Sciences, etc. have no rational foundation. We're talking MAP kinase, ERK2, not "substrates" or a "family". There is one and only one MAP kinase.
Furthermore, it would seem that Craig Malbon, University Medical Center at SUNY Stony Brook and senior author on the Journal of Clinical Investigation manuscript, *does* feel that there is a role for this kinase in disease, given the strong association with overexpression in human breast carcinoma and derivative metastases.
Cobb's lab has long been working on the physical constraints of mutant ERK2 molecules that govern phosphorylation by MEK isoforms.
Regeneron has a respected small molecule program, leaning initially on the Glaxo collaboration. If that weren't sufficient, there's the Pharmacopeia work. You patent the protein, then you go after the modulating drug. When you've got the modulating drug, you patent it. They've obviously had the protein in-hand for some time.
REGN's chairman, Roy Vagelos, headed Merck's effort during their period of marked expansion, for Bejeezus' sake. While it's good that you recognize the talent of Yancopoulos, your assertion that the company is a one-man-show is absurd.
Vagelos, Schleifer and Yancopoulos have an excellent track record for avoiding hype. In the last two years, they've struggled to get out of the hole that they dug for themselves with BDNF. The MAP kinase work is just another example of their broadly diversified (and respected) research program.
Good luck in all your investments, Rick |
