Deforolimus is a novel small-molecule inhibitor of the protein mTOR, a “master switch” in cancer cells. Blocking mTOR creates a starvation-like effect in cancer cells by interfering with cell growth, division, metabolism, and angiogenesis.
ARIAD is collaborating with Merck & Co., Inc. (“Merck”) to globally develop and commercialize deforolimus (see Merck collaboration). This collaboration supports our strategic objective to build a fully-integrated oncology company that discovers, develops and markets breakthrough medicines for cancer patients.
In collaboration with Merck, we plan to conduct a broad-based global oncology development program in multiple cancer indications. Pursuant to our global development plan (GDP) with Merck, we anticipate that at least five cancer indications will be pursued for deforolimus; sarcomas, endometrial, prostate, breast and non-small cell lung cancers. Deforolimus will be studied both as a single agent and in combination with various targeted agents driven by mechanisms of action and biology. During 2008, the GDP calls for initiation of multiple clinical trials, including Phase 2 trials in endometrial, breast and prostate cancers.
For specific information on sites and enrollment status on clinical trials with deforolimus in various cancers, please visit www.clinicaltrials.gov or please email us at TrialDesk@ariad.com.
Deforolimus: Beyond Cancer
Beyond our focus area of oncology, deforolimus has potential to provide important clinical benefits in other therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular disease. At ARIAD, we are leveraging the market potential of deforolimus by licensing the compound to other companies for non-cancer development and commercialization. For example, we have collaborations with Medinol, Ltd. (“Medinol”) and ICON Medical Corp. (“ICON”) to develop stents and other medical devices that deliver deforolimus to prevent reblockage at sites of vascular injury following stent-assisted angioplasty.
