AstraZeneca to research compounds with Merck

AstraZeneca has teamed up with Merck to evaluate the co-administration of two compounds for the first time.

Based on preclinical evidence suggesting combined administration of the former’s AZD6244 with the latter’s MK-2206 could enhance their anticancer properties, the companies will analyse them together to research a novel combination regimen.

Vice-president and head of oncology at AstraZeneca Alan Barge remarked the partnership would bring a wealth of expertise.

“We are well positioned to implement a detailed and timely evaluation of the therapeutic potential of this novel combination, with the aim of bringing this potentially effective regimen to patients as rapidly as possible,” he commented.

Gary Gilliland, senior vice-president and franchise of Merck Research Laboratories’ oncology division, added the businesses will work to understand and make use of the true potential of the combined administration of the compounds.

In April, the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use granted a positive opinion of AstraZeneca’s Iressa for adults with locally advanced of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer.