Roche announces antimicrobial resistance alliance with Meiji and Fedora

Roche has announced a new collaboration with Meiji Seika Pharma and Fedora pertaining to the development and commercialisation of the beta-lactamase inhibitor OP0595.

Beta-lactamase inhibitors have the potential to restore or potentiate the activity of beta-lactam antibiotics. The combination of OP0595 with a beta-lactam antibiotic is being developed to target severe infections caused by Enterobacteriaceae, including multi-drug-resistant strains.

Under the terms of the deal, Roche will obtain worldwide rights from both companies for development and commercialisation of the agent, with the exception of Japan, where Meiji will retain sole rights.

Meiji and Fedora will receive upfront plus development, regulatory and sales event milestone payments totaling up to $750 million (492.74 million pounds), plus tiered royalties.

Janet Hammond, head of infectious diseases for Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, said: "This beta-lactamase inhibitor has the potential for an expanded spectrum against multi-drug resistant bacteria and could be a much needed option for patients suffering from difficult-to-treat infections."

This comes after the firm announced a strategic collaboration with Foundation Medicine earlier this month, focused on the personalised treatment of cancer.