On August 19, 2002 De Novo Pharmaceuticals Ltd, The Northern Institute for Cancer Research at the University of Newcastle and Cancer Research Ventures Ltd are pleased to reported that they have entered into a collaborative agreement for the discovery of small molecule inhibitors of the MDM2-p53 interaction (Press release, Cancer Research Technology, AUG 19, 2002, View Source [SID1234523469]). The MDM2-p53 pathway is a target which is implicated in the suppression of abnormal cell proliferation, and therefore may have therapeutic potential in several forms of cancer.

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Under the terms of the collaboration, full details of which have not been disclosed, De Novo Pharmaceuticals will provide drug discovery expertise through their suite of proprietary software to develop small molecule inhibitors based on seed molecules provided by The Northern Institute for Cancer Research. The Northern Institute for Cancer Research and Cancer Research Ventures have considerable expertise in this research area and will provide medicinal chemistry and screening for the output of the collaboration.

Dr Ian Hardcastle of The Northern Institute for Cancer Research commented, "We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with De Novo Pharmaceuticals in our quest for novel small molecule drug candidates against this important protein target. We believe this collaboration with De Novo will enable the Northern Institute for Cancer Research and Cancer Research Ventures to accelerate research against this important therapeutic target".

Dr Steven Beasley, Chief Operating Officer of De Novo, added, "Our discovery portfolio concentrates on key target areas where there is an urgent need for high quality leads with potential for rapid progression into development. As we move forwards, we are building a network of efficient and flexible collaborations with academic groups and Universities where this adds value to the Company. We are delighted to be working with The Northern Institute for Cancer Research and Cancer Research Ventures Ltd, who have done much of the pioneering work on this important target.”

"CRV are delighted to be able to facilitate this collaboration which highlights the quality of Cancer Research UK-funded science at The University of Newcastle, a leading institution in the fight against cancer" said Dr Guy Wood-Gush, CRV Chief Executive.