ARX-424 in MS -- a pegylated version of interferon beta developed using Ambrx's Recode™ technology
ATX-MS-1467 in MS -- A novel soluble compound developed in collaboration with the company Apitope consisting of four short peptides that are derived from myelin basic protein. This therapeutic approach is designed to induce immunological tolerance of the body's T-cells - multiple sclerosis is characterized by T-cells attacking the myelin sheath protecting nerves.
Extended release formulation of IFNbeta-1a in MS-a long-acting formulation of our interferon beta-1a, the active ingredient for our leading MS therapy, Rebif.
PI-2301 in MS – a second generation peptide copolymer thought to enhance the regulatory response of the immune system, which has completed Phase Ib in multiple sclerosis.
MEK inhibitors (AS703026/MSC1936369B and AS703988/MSC2015103B) – small molecule inhibitors of MEK 1 and MEK 2, (MEK stands for MAPK/ERK kinase) that are part of one specific signaling pathway which is upregulated in various cancer types. Blocking these two kinases plays a pivotal role in inhibiting this pathway and has lead in experimental models to antitumor activity. Phase I clinical trials are ongoing which evaluate the potential safety and first signs of clinical activity of the MEK inhibitor AS703026/MSC1936369B in solid tumors and hematological malignancies and the MEK inhibitor AS703988/MSC2015103B in solid tumors.
In 2010 Merck KGaA signed a worldwide research and development agreement with sanofi-aventis U.S. Inc., under which Merck Serono and sanofi-aventis U.S. Inc. collaboratively investigate two novel experimental combinations of the MEK inhibitor AS703026/MSC1936369B with one of two compounds of sanofi-aventis.
PI3K/mTOR inhibitor SAR245409 (also known as XL765), is under the responsibility of Merck, and class I PI3K inhibitor SAR245408 (also known as XL147), is under the responsibility of sanofi-aventis.
c-Met kinase inhibitor (EMD 1214063) in solid tumors – a small molecule inhibitor of the c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase. Alterations of the c-Met signaling pathway are found in various cancer types and correlate with aggressive tumor behavior and poor clinical prognosis. Currently in Phase I trials to investigate potential safety and first signs of clinical activity in solid tumors.
Fibroblast growth factor 18 in OA – one of a family of proteins involved in stimulating cellular growth proliferation and cellular differentiation. In this Phase I study, FGF 18 shows potential as the first disease-modifying drug for osteoarthritis. It has a unique mode of action in chondrocyte stimulation, leading to matrix synthesis and chondrocyte renewal.
Atacicept (TACI-Ig) in lupus nephritis – atacicept is a recombinant fusion protein, which blocks the cytokines APRIL and BLyS, two members of the tumor necrosis factor family, that regulate B-cell maturation, function, and survival. A Phase Ib trial has been initiated to evaluate the safety and tolerability of atacicept in patients suffering from lupus nephritis (LN), a complication of the chronic autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
NHS-IL 12 – (MSB0010360) – a cancer immunotherapy that targets the DNA fragments released from the dead and dying (necrotic) cells which is found in the context of many solid tumors. It delivers a high, localized dose of human interleukin 12, a very potent interleukin, thereby activating a cellular immune response. NHS-IL12 is currently in Phase I trials for the treatment of solid tumors.
