Phytopharm’s current internal development focus is in neurodegenerative diseases of the central and peripheral nervous systems, inflammatory diseases and orphan diseases.  We are actively seeking potential partners to help develop and commercialise our existing products in these areas. We have a flexible and creative approach to deal making and will consider the merits of global and regional deals

Out licensing strategy

Cogane™

Phytopharm is currently developing Cogane™ (PYM50028) as a novel, potentially disease modifying treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The molecule is a member of the sapogenin chemical class of compounds, which is protected by an intellectual property portfolio of granted and pending patent applications. Cogane™ is an orally active, small molecule modulator of neurotrophic factors which, in addition to the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and ALS, has the potential to play a role in the treatment of a wide range of other orphan and non-orphan neurodegenerative diseases. Phytopharm has considerable clinical experience with Cogane™, having completed a Phase I development programme and an exploratory Phase II Alzheimer's study; a multicentre, Phase II, proof-of-concept, dose ranging study of Cogane™ in the treatment of unmedicated patients with early-stage Parkinson’s disease (CONFIDENT-PD) has completed dosing, with headline results expected in February 2013. We are now actively seeking a development partner(s) to conduct the registration trials and other activities required for approval and to commercialise Cogane™ for the treatment of PD and/or ALS.

In 2011, the global market for Parkinson’s disease therapeutic products was worth approximately $3.0 billion and the world market for neurodegenerative drugs is projected to increase substantially over the coming years, driven by aging populations and the likely associated increase in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. We also expect there to be a continuing high level of unmet medical need, especially in relation to diseases such as ALS. The global ALS market is currently valued at approximately $200 million, however, a potential market size of $2 billion is forecast if an effective (i.e., disease modifying, life-extending) treatment were available.

Myogane™

Myogane™ (PYM50018) is a sapogenin compound which is structurally similar to Cogane™ and which has a similar pharmacological profile.  Phytopharm has been developing Myogane™ for the treatment of glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Although Phytopharm’s current clinical experience with Myogane™ is limited, the GXP data package supporting the product is comprehensive and we believe would support relatively rapid progression of the product in to a Phase II, clinical proof-of-concept study.  We are currently seeking a partner for this product either alone, or as part of an umbrella deal for the sapogenin compounds.

P61 series compounds

Phytopharm has identified a series of compounds exhibiting multi-modal pharmacology. Compounds in this chemical series demonstrate varying degrees of anti-inflammatory, anti-tissue remodelling, anti-spasmodic and TRPV-1 receptor-modulatory activity and a prototype compound from this class has been evaluated in several preclinical disease models. These initial preclinical studies which included comparator compounds, combined with pharmacological profiling of other compounds in the series suggest a number of potential clinical indications for this class of compounds e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cough, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease and peripheral pain, potentially via inhaled or topical delivery. Our strategy is to progress our current lead candidate through pre-clinical proof-of-concept studies in a relevant disease model(s) as funding allows, whilst proactively seeking opportunities for partnering/progression of candidate(s) through full preclinical development, towards a first-in-human study and ultimately a Phase IIa, clinical proof-of-concept study in patients.

How to contact Phytopharm

To contact us about our licensing opportunities, please email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it