Merck Serono spins out newco to develop AD assets

The Merck Serono S.A. division of Merck KGaA (Xetra:MRK) launched Asceneuron (Geneva, Switzerland) to develop the division's preclinical Alzheimer's disease programs targeting microtubule-associated protein-tau (MAPT; TAU, FTDP-17) and beta amyloid. Asceneuron will develop the programs up to Phase I testing and seek a partnership or licensing deal for further development. Merck Serono will invest EUR 5 million ($6.4 million) in seed funding, and Merck Serono Ventures will manage the investment. Asceneuron could not be reached for details. ...