AstraZeneca takes control of CDK9 inhibitor program

AstraZeneca has taken control of the experimental cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) treatment from Probiodrug. 

As part of the transaction, a lead molecule and backup compounds as well as all associated intellectual properties have been sold to AstraZeneca.

CDK9 is believed to be a promising target for the treatment of both cancer and inflammatory diseases, having been implicated in the transcriptional regulation of genes involved with both proliferation and inflammation.

Susan Galbraith, vice president and head of the Oncology iMed unit at AtraZeneca, said: "We believe that Probiodrug’s CDK9 inhibitor program while early stage shows potential and we look forward to continuing its development."

Cyclin-dependent kinases are responsible for controlling cell cycle progression and a number of genetic causes can lead to overactivity in cancer. 

The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, but Probiodrug chief executive Hendrik Liebers said the company sold off the program in an effort to focus resources on its development of treatments for Alzheimer's disease.