Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) has entered into a partnership with Japan-based biotechnology firm Prism BioLab to discover peptide-mimicking small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) for up to three protein-protein interaction (PPI) targets. Under the agreement, Lilly will be responsible for the clinical development and commercialization of any successful candidates, while Prism will receive an upfront payment and is eligible for up to USD 660 million in milestone payments, in addition to potential sales royalties.
Prism’s proprietary technology is highlighted for its ability to target previously undruggable PPIs. The company’s orally available molecules replicate the three-dimensional structures of alpha-helices and beta-turns found in intracellular PPI interphases and receptor-ligand interactions.
As stated by Prism, fellow Japanese companies Eisai (TYO: 4523) and Ohara Pharmaceuticals are currently engaged in clinical studies for CBP/beta-catenin interaction-blocking candidates licensed from Prism, focusing on cancer and liver disease, respectively.- Flcube.com
