Group Investigates Therapeutic Peptides in Oncology

Pharmaceutical company Ipsen and PeptiMimesis, a start-up from an INSERM (French National Institute of Health and Medical Research) and Strasbourg University spin-off project, funded by SATT Conectus Alsace, have signed a research partnership and a licensing option for the development and marketing of novel therapeutic peptides in oncology. Ipsen will combine its expertise in peptide design and development with PeptiMimesis' knowledge in the identification of transmembrane peptides and intracellular signaling. The target receptor is involved in different phases of cancer development,including angiogenesis, immune tolerance and proliferation. "PeptiMimesis is extremely proud that its innovative approach is recognized by Ipsen, a prominent partner in therapeutic peptides. We are convinced that this initial collaboration will pave the way for a series of partnerships, given the tremendous possibilities of targeting transmembrane receptors," said Pascal Neuville, chief executive officer of Domain Therapeutics, co-founding company of PeptiMimesis and chairman of PeptiMimesis.

"This partnership is the result of more than 15 years of research that reached the validation stage thanks to the support of SATT Conectus. Work on the project will now continue in close cooperation between my laboratory, PeptiMimesis, and Ipsen," added Dominique Bagnard, PhD scientific founder of PeptiMimesis.

Claude Bertrand, executive vice president, research & development and chief scientific officer of Ipsen, said: "We have been working with Dominique Bagnard's team since 2014 to assess the potential of transmembrane targeting of a specific receptor identified as involved in cancer development. We are delighted to continue our involvement with the young start-up PeptiMimesis, to combine our strengths and expertise to identify and develop new treatments for cancer patients. The project aligns perfectly with our research strategy and extends our expertise in peptides.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Ipsen and PeptiMimesis will work closely together to move the project forward towards clinical development. PeptiMimesis will receive financial support from Ipsen for the research phases, as well as milestone payments associated with the program. In the event the option is exercised, Ipsen could make further potential payments to PeptiMimesis at development, regulatory and commercial milestones, as well as royalty payments on worldwide annual net sales.