Pancreate is a bioactive peptide sequence of a naturally occurring human protein that has been shown in preclinical studies to stimulate the growth of new insulin producing islets in the pancreas, resulting in restoration of normal metabolic function and glucose control in the blood. The commencement of Phase I studies is planned for later this year.
As per the terms of this agreement, sanofi-aventis is granted an exclusive worldwide license to develop, manufacture and commercialise Pancreate and related compounds. CureDM is expected to receive an upfront payment, as well as development, regulatory and commercial milestone payments.
Reportedly, all such payments could reach a total of $335m. In addition, CureDM is eligible to receive tiered royalties on worldwide product sales.
Marc Cluzel, executive vice-president of R&D at Sanofi-aventis, said: “Sanofi-aventis is pleased to add to its Diabetes Division pipeline this highly innovative technology that has the potential to stimulate the formation of fully functional new pancreatic islets, thereby helping to restore patients’ pancreatic function.
“Once fully developed, Pancreate has the potential to become the first regenerative treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and to address the challenges that the growing diabetes epidemic poses on patients and healthcare systems.”