Confo's CFTX-1554 is a novel inhibitor of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) intended for the treatment of neuropathic pain and is currently in Phase 1 clinical development
Lilly’s corporate centre in Indiana. (Credit: Momoneymoproblemz/Wikipedia)
Eli Lilly and Company (Lilly) has entered into a global licensing agreement with Confo Therapeutics for the latter’s investigational non-opioid pain therapy, CFTX-1554, and backup compounds.
CFTX-1554 is a novel inhibitor of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) intended for the treatment of neuropathic pain and is currently in Phase 1 clinical development.
The drug works through a non-opioid approach for treating neuropathic pain, which is caused by damage to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord, and other indications.
Under the terms of the agreement, Confo will receive $40m in an upfront payment and is eligible for up to $590m in potential milestone payments, and tiered royalties.
Lilly is responsible for carrying out the clinical development beyond the Phase 1 stage.
The agreement also includes a programme to further develop Confo’s existing therapeutic antibody candidates that target the same receptor.
In addition, Confo will participate in the funding of future development programmes, under a co-investment option, after clinical proof-of-concept for additional royalties.
Confo Therapeutics CEO Cedric Ververken said: “We are pleased that Lilly, an expert in chronic pain with a wealth of experience in bringing novel therapies to patients, has recognised Confo’s ability to develop best-in-class GPCR drug candidates.
“CFTX-1554’s progression through the clinic will benefit from Lilly’s experience and global organisation, while we will continue to develop and expand our growing, innovative pipeline of GPCR-targeted assets, both small molecules and biologics.”
According to the company, current treatment methods are often ineffective and may lead to serious side effects including addiction.
Patients suffering from peripheral pain are in urgent need of effective analgesics that are well-tolerated and have no impact on the quality of life of patients.
CFTX-1554 is the company’s first product candidate in clinical development and its non-opioid approach addresses peripheral pain while avoiding centrally mediated side effects.
Confo is a Belgium-based biotechnology company, focused on developing therapeutics that target G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs).
The company was spun out of Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VIB-VUB) in 2015 and is supported by global investors focused on life-science companies.