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MorphoSys will not execute the option deal to license Vivoryon’s small molecule QPCTL inhibitors for oncology
Vivoryon will continue to evaluate QPCTL inhibitors in oncology based on preclinical studies conducted in collaboration with the University of Kiel and will consider strategic development options based on the existing proof-of-concept data
HALLE (SAALE) / MUNICH, Germany, 29 April 2020 – Vivoryon Therapeutics AG (Euronext Amsterdam: VVY, ISIN DE0007921835) today announced that MorphoSys has not exercised the exclusive option to license Vivoryon’s small molecule QPCTL inhibitors in the immuno-oncology field.
During the option period, MorphoSys conducted preclinical studies to assess the potential of small molecule QPCTL inhibitors in oncology as well as the possible benefits of combining these inhibitors with MorphoSys’ proprietary program, tafasitamab, a compound in late-stage development for the treatment of relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (r/r DLBCL). In parallel, Vivoryon, based on its 2019 research collaboration with the University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, conducted a similar series of preclinical studies.
Ultimately, the data demonstrated a significant additive effect when QPCTL inhibitors were combined with CD20 and other antibodies, indicating that Vivoryon’s lead drug candidate, PQ912, could represent a novel approach for cancer therapy. Vivoryon’s orally available compounds target the QPCTL enzyme, which has been shown to be a modulator of the CD47-SIRP alpha interaction. Left unchecked, this interaction allows cancer cells to escape the body’s innate immune defense through inhibition of the phagocytic activity of macrophages.
Ulrich Dauer, CEO of Vivoryon Therapeutics commented: “Although we are disappointed by MorphoSys’ decision, we remain optimistic about collaborating with other leading oncology companies to further leverage the strength and versatility of our small molecule therapeutics in oncology.”
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For more information, please contact:
Vivoryon Therapeutics AG
Dr. Ulrich Dauer, CEO
Email: contact@vivoryon.com
Trophic Communications
Gretchen Schweitzer / Joanne Tudorica
Tel: +49 172 861 8540 / +49 176 2103 7191
Email: Trophic@vivoryon.com
About Vivoryon Therapeutics AG
With 20+ years of unmatched understanding in identifying post-translational modifying enzymes that play critical roles in disease initiation and progression, Vivoryon’s scientific expertise has facilitated the creation of a discovery and development engine for small molecule therapeutics. This platform has demonstrated success by developing a novel therapeutic in type 2 diabetes. In its current programs Vivoryon Therapeutics is advancing its lead product, PQ912, in Alzheimer’s disease and its entire portfolio of QPCT and QPCTL inhibitors in oncology and other indications.
www.vivoryon.com
Forward Looking Statements
Information set forth in this press release contains forward-looking statements, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained herein represent the judgment of Vivoryon Therapeutics AG as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees but are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, and which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in these forward-looking statements. We expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such statements to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.