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news.Neuroscience biotech company Cerecor has acquired exclusive, worldwide rights to develop and commercialize MK-0657 from Merck, referred to MSD outside the US and Canada.
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The small molecule NMDA receptor subunit 2B antagonist MK-0657 will be developed against all human indications, includingdepression.
Initially, Merck developed MK-0657 for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
Cerecor co-founder and CEO Dr. Blake Paterson said, "Patients and families who have struggled with severe refractory depression and suicidality easily recognize the need for more effective treatments, and we will develop MK-0657 with the purpose that befits such an important unmet need."
The agreement includes milestone payments and royalties consistent with clinical stage licenses in neuroscience.
The technology transfer activities are expected to be completed by mid-2013 followed by the commencement of clinical trials.
Merck Research Laboratories clinical neuroscience and ophthalmology vice president Dr. David Michelson said, "Cerecor has established scientific and clinical expertise in the area of treatment resistant depression, an area of significant unmet medical need."