Wyeth Enters Hemophilia R&D Pacts

Wyeth Pharmaceuticals signed a research collaboration with MediVas, LLC, a biomaterials company specializing in improved delivery of biologics. This collaboration was initiated to discover, develop, manufacture and commercialize biopharmaceuticals that extend the duration of action of recombinant factor treatments for hemophilia. MediVas will use a polymer-based drug delivery system to develop advanced delivery methods to create a longer half-life for these proteins.

Under the terms of the agreement, MediVas will receive milestone payments associated with development, regulatory filings and approvals and royalty payments based on product sales. Wyeth will research, develop, manufacture and market any products that result from the agreement.

Wyeth has also signed a research collaboration and license agreement with Nautilus Biotech to discover and develop novel recombinant Factor IX proteins for hemophilia B. These extended half-life proteins will also be designed to enhance patient convenience by reducing the number and frequency of treatments needed.

As part of the agreement, Nautilus will apply its proprietary technology to improve the duration of action of recombinant hemophilia B therapy. This technology makes minimal and specific changes to the amino acid sequence in order to slow the breakdown of the protein in the body.

Wyeth will develop, manufacture and market products derived from the collaboration. Nautilus will receive an upfront payment, R&D fees, milestone payments associated with development, regulatory filings and approvals, and royalty payments based on product sales.