Shire Licenses IBD Drug from Pfizer
Shire has agreed to license global rights to all indications for PF-00547659 from Pfizer Inc. PF-00547659 is an investigational biologic being evaluated for the treatment of moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
PF-00547659 is a fully-human monoclonal antibody that is designed to directly target a gastrointestinal endothelial adhesion molecule known as mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule 1 (MAdCAM-1), that binds to the α4β7 integrin on lymphocytes (white blood cells).
PF-00547659 has been evaluated in more than 700 patients in Phase I and II trials, and Phase III trials are expected to begin after consultation with global health authorities. Closing of the transaction is subject to antitrust approval.
IBD includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which are serious, chronic diseases characterized by inflammation of the intestine; symptoms include abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fatigue, and weight loss.
