Novo Nordisk and ReNeuron today announced that Novo Nordisk has out-licensed the development project NNC 05-1869 (ReN1869) and a group of related compounds to ReNeuron. ReN1869 and the other compounds covered by the agreement belong to a novel class of molecules known as Neurins. This group of compounds affect the nerve fibres, so-called C-fibres, which transmit pain and inflammation signals.

ReN1869 has been shown to be effective in preclinical efficacy animal models of chronic pain and inflammation and has been well tolerated in three Phase 1 clinical trials. The compound has already shown anti-inflammatory activity in humans.

ReNeuron will commence two Phase 2 trials with ReN1869 targeted at neuropathic pain and joint inflammation and will also progress the pre-clinical development of a back-up compound, NNC 47-0189 (ReN0189).

Under the terms of the agreement ReNeuron is responsible for the Phase 2 clinical development programme and the parties will collaborate to find a commercialisation partner.

Martin Edwards MD, CEO of ReNeuron says, "This agreement accelerates ReNeuron's commercial development giving us rights to develop an exciting family of compounds with a novel mechanism of action. ReN1869 is ready for Phase 2 trials and we plan to reach proof of concept within 18 months."

Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, chief science officer, Novo Nordisk Health Care says, "We recognise the commercial potential of NNC 05-1869 and the other Neurins, but the therapeutic areas they address, are outside Novo Nordisk's core business areas. As a result we are pleased to collaborate with ReNeuron to ensure these compounds can be progressed quickly into efficacy trials."

Financial terms are not announced.

ReNeuron is a London based pharmaceutical company focused on disorders of the central nervous system. The company's lead in-house technology is conditionally immortalised human brain stem cells targeted at stroke, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.