San Diego-based Anadys has signed a licensing deal for its experimental hepatitis C drug with Novartis, earning $20 million up front and as much as $550 million more in milestone payments. A $10 million payment will be triggered if Anadys' upcoming IND application is approved by the FDA. ANA975 is in Phase I trials for hep C but may also be developed for other indications such as hepatitis B infection.
"Results of our clinical studies suggest that TLR7 agonists may represent an important new advance in anti-infective therapies," said Kleanthis G. Xanthopoulos, PhD, Anadys' president and CEO. "We look forward to working with Novartis who shares our vision and commitment to combating infectious diseases. Together we hope to realize the potential of TLR-based therapies, including ANA975, as a creative and novel treatment for HCV, HBV and other infectious diseases."
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