PeptiDream, Pfizer deal

PeptiDream and Pfizer mutually terminated a 2010 deal to discover macrocyclic peptides to link to the pharma's CovX-Bodies. The decision comes nearly four months after Pfizer closed its CovX research unit. The pharma acquired CovX Pharmaceuticals Inc. in 2007 for the CovX Body technology, which linked peptides to a single antibody as a scaffold to allow half-life extension and bioavailability. PeptiDream retains rights to compounds discovered under the deal, including macrocyclic peptides the company said are "standalones," and said it plans to "take them forward and potentially partner them." Pfizer declined to provide additional details (see BioCentury, March 4). ...