GlaxoSmithKline begins phase III trial of Crohn’s disease drug

GlaxoSmithKline has begun a phase III development programme for its new Crohn's disease therapy GSK1605786 by commencing a clinical trial.

In partnership with ChemoCentryx, the company has begun treatment of the first patient involved in the initial pivotal induction study, which will compare the efficacy of the drug to placebo.

GSK1605786 is a non-biologic, orally bioavailable CCR9 antagonist formerly known as Traficet-EN, which is designed to help reduce inflammation of the digestive tract, while maintaining normal immune function.

GlaxoSmithKline has obtained an exclusive global license to develop and commercialise the drug as part of an ongoing collaboration with ChemoCentryx.

It is thought that the phase III clinical development programme for GSK1605786 will eventually involve more than 2,500 Crohn's disease sufferers.

Last month, GlaxoSmithKline announced that it is partnering with Impax Pharmaceuticals on the development and global marketing of IPX066, a treatment for Parkinson's disease that has demonstrated promise in early-stage studies.