AstraZeneca confirms licensing deal for NHE3 inhibitor

AstraZeneca and Ardelyx have confirmed a worldwide exclusive licensing deal for the latter company's NHE3 inhibitor programme for the treatment of end-stage renal disease and chronic kidney illnesses.

The agreement, which also includes the phase II-ready lead compound RDX5791, will see the pharmaceuticals giant pay 35 million dollars (21.8 million pounds) up front, then development milestones relating to launch and commercialisation of up to 237.5 million dollars.

As part of the transaction, Ardelyx has secured the option of co-promoting the product in the US, although neither company has disclosed the financial arrangements at this time.

Through its unique mechanism, RDX5791 is believed to limit the absorption of dietary sodium and divert sodium exertion from the kidney to the faeces, which could spare the kidney and cardiovascular from exposure of both sodium and fluid accumulation.

Gunnar Olsson, vice-president and head of CVGI Innovative Medicines at AstraZeneca, said: "This licensing agreement accelerates our strong commitment to developing new medicines for people with renal complications, including those resulting from diabetes."