Oryzon licenses LSD1 inhibitors to Roche
Oryzon Genomics S.A. (Barcelona, Spain) granted Roche (SIX:ROG; OTCQX:RHHBY) exclusive, worldwide rights to develop and commercialize a program of inhibitors of lysine-specific demethylase 1 ( KDM1A; LSD1) with a primary focus on oncology and hematology. LSD1 removes methyl groups from lysine residues of histone H3, which induces or represses expression of specific genes. The program includes lead compound, ORY-1001, which is in Phase I/IIa testing to treat acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Oryzon will complete Phase I/IIa testing, after which Roche will be solely responsible for further development. Oryzon will receive $21 million in an undisclosed upfront payment and near-term milestones. The company is eligible for over $500 million in additional milestones, plus tiered royalties up to the mid-double digits. ...