SYGNIS and Dr Reddy's in AX200 supply deal

Germany-based SYGNIS Pharma AG and leading Indian drugmaker Dr Reddy's Laboratories have signed an exclusive 10-year agreement for the supply of the active ingredient AX200, a biological molecule in development by the former for the treatment of stroke and other neurodegenerative disorders. The accord secures the supply of AX200 far beyond the clinical development stage and provides a solid basis for the envisaged marketing of the compound, the German firm states.

SYGNIS successfully completed a Phase IIa clinical trial of AX200 in the fall (Marketletter September 24) that demonstrated safety and efficacy in patients with acute stroke. In the second half of 2008, the company plans to start a Phase IIb efficacy trial in acute stroke with the product supplied by Dr Reddy's. Stroke affects over five million patients worldwide every year and is the third leading cause of death, presenting a major socio-economic burden.