MEM 3454
MEM 3454 is a partial agonist of the nicotinic alpha-7 receptor that we are developing as a potential therapy for Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS).
Phase 1 Clinical Trial Program
In February 2006, we completed a Phase 1 clinical trial program of MEM 3454 in healthy volunteers under Clinical Trial Applications that we filed with Health Canada.
Phase 2a Clinical Trials
In November 2007, we reported the results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 2a clinical trial of R3487/MEM 3454 that evaluated the safety, tolerability and cognitive effects of three doses of the compound in subjects with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. In the trial, the compound demonstrated a statistically significant effect on multiple measures of cognition in this patient population.
In December 2007, we commenced a proof-of-concept Phase 2a study of MEM 3454 for the treatment of cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS).
In February 2008, we announced plans to
conduct a clinical study of MEM 3454 on two biomarkers of schizophrenia, P50
sensory gating and mismatch negativity, in patients with schizophrenia.
In May 2008, Roche exercised its option to license R3487/MEM 3454 triggering a $6 million milestone payment to us. We are entitled to future payments upon the achievement of milestones, including a $17 million milestone payment upon the completion of the ongoing Phase 2a study in cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia, and royalties on product sales. Roche is responsible for further development and commercialization, though we retain an option to co-promote R3487/MEM 3454 in the United States.