Baxter announces recombinant factor IX development programme

Baxter International has announced the start of pre-clinical trials for the development of recombinant factor IX proteins for the treatment of haemophilia B.

The company said that it will develop both an unmodified therapy for the treatment of acute episodes of bleeding in addition to a chemically modified version of recombinant factor IX for the prevention of bleeding in patients.

It added that the work on the longer-acting formulation of recombinant factor IX includes a collaboration with Nektar Therapeutics to use that firm’s PEGylation technology in conjunction with its own recombinant factor IX to lengthen the period of time factor levels are maintained in the human body.

Hartmut J Ehrlich, vice-president of global research and development for bioscience at Baxter, said: “Extending our recombinant portfolio beyond Advate, which is indicated for the treatment of haemophilia A, to target haemophilia B is a natural progression of our leadership in haemophilia and in providing innovative therapies for rare blood disorders.”

He added that a longer-acting factor IX may result in patients requiring fewer infusions, enabling individuals with haemophilia B to lead a more healthy life.

In April 2007, Baxter announced a $1.5 million (750,000 pound) donation to the World Federation of Haemophilia as part of its efforts to enhance care for patients in the developing world.