Merck & Co. Inc, Endocyte deal

Following a comprehensive portfolio assessment, Merck decided to no longer pursue development of vintafolide and returned worldwide rights to the product to Endocyte for all indications. In May, Merck withdrew an MAA from EMA seeking conditional approval of Vynfinit vintafolide to treat folate receptor-positive, platinum-resistant ovarian cancer in combination with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin. The pharma and Endocyte made the decision based on further review of interim data from the Phase III PROCEED trial, which was suspended earlier that month after an independent DSMB recommended stopping the trial early for futility. Vintafolide is folate (vitamin B9) linked to alkaloid chemotherapy agent desacetylvinblastine monohydrazide. ...