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Biotech / Medical : wla(warner lambert) -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: t36 who wrote (162)	12/10/1997 10:32:00 AM
From: Henry Niman	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 942

I've heard a rumor that WLA is looking for a partner to help counter the fallout from the liver problems associated with Rezulin. Rezulin is a TZD that activates a hormone receptor (PPARgamma) involved in tuirning on genes that help overcome insulin resistance (the underlying cause of type II diabetes). The hormone receptor activated by Rezulin, combines with another hormone receptor, RXRalpha. This receptor is activated by drugs related to Vitamin-A (Rexinoids). LGND has one rexinoid (Targretin) in type II diabetes trials in Europe. In animanl models of type type II diabetes, it synergizes with TZDs (like Rezulin) as expected from molecular studies. Thus it is possible that the drug will be effective as monotherapy as well as combination therapy (with insulin, TZDs like Rezulin, sulfanylureas, and Metformin). LGND had extensive talks with WLA over the summer. WLA passed on the deal (LGND wanted too much upfront) and LGND subsequently did their deal with LLY. However, the Rexinoids were developed under a joint venture between LGND and AGN. That partnership has now been disolved (although each entity receives royalties from compounds deleveloped by the other party) and the compounds devided. AGN received some 3rd generation Rexinoids and has indicated that they would look for a large corporate partner to develop the compounds to treat metaboloc diseases like diabetes. Any rumors on talks between WLA and AGN? I would think that WLA would now be more interested and willing, since the LLY/LGND provides some parameters on upfront fees (the LLY/LGND has valued at approximately $200 million in upfront fees and milestones, with more coming from royalties).