Privately held Epigen Biosciences Inc. entered into a collaboration agreement with Novo Nordisk A/S to develop treatments for diabetic and chronic kidney disease, among other conditions.
San Diego-based Epigen said Novo Nordisk has licensed its Lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1, or LPA1, receptor antagonist EPGN696 for development in diabetic and chronic kidney disease and other chronic diseases associated with metabolic syndrome.
LPA1 is a protein in humans which plays a part in certain chronic diseases associated with metabolic syndrome, the drug works by blocking certain functions of these proteins.
Epigen said that in preclinical testing, EPGN696 demonstrated efficacy and safety in rodent models of kidney disease by targeting fibrosis, inflammation and growth factor responses.
Under the agreement, Epigen will receive upfront and potential milestone payments upon the achievement of specific development goals up to $200 million. It will also be eligible to receive royalties and milestones on the worldwide sales of products which arise from the collaboration.
Novo Nordisk and Epigen will collaborate on the development of EPGN696 for diabetic kidney disease and other indications.
