MedGenesis Therapeutix has entered into an agreement with Pfizer, granting Pfizer an exclusive, worldwide option to license its glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) protein and convection enhanced delivery (CED) technology to be used in research for potential treatments for Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Erich Mohr, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of MedGenesis commented, “We believe that delivering drugs, including proteins, precisely to the regions of the brain where they are required will allow the potential for better treatments for a whole range of central nervous system (CNS) disease, and opens up the opportunity for the potential development of truly disease-modifying treatments of neurological diseases. We are delighted to be collaborating with Pfizer to complete our GDNF program, and we hope that this collaboration will result in potential treatments for people living with Parkinson’s that could radically alter the course of their disease.”

MedGenesis is currently running a proof of concept study in Parkinson’s disease with its aforementioned GDNF and CED technology. Under the terms of the agreement MedGenesis will receive an upfront option fee and upon exercise of the option by Pfizer will be eligible for further milestone and royalty payments.

“Pfizer is committed to improving the lives of people living with neurological diseases, including Parkinson’s disease,” said Michael Ehlers, Senior Vice President, Neuroscience Research Unit, Pfizer. “With limited treatment options currently available, Parkinson’s disease is a devastating illness for patients and families. We believe that this collaboration with MedGenesis has the potential to provide the first disease-modifying treatment that slows the progressive decline in patients, consistent with our commitment to making a difference in areas of high unmet medical need.”