ChemoCentryx identifies novel drug candidate targeting ChemR23 chemoattractant receptor

ChemoCentryx, Inc., today announced that it has identified a novel drug candidate targeting the chemoattractant receptor known as ChemR23. This investigational new drug, designated CCX832, is an orally-administered small molecule antagonist of ChemR23, an important player in inflammatory disease.  CCX832, which is slated to start clinical development later this year or early next, represents the fourth and final drug candidate under the Company's alliance with GlaxoSmithKline ( GSK). The acceptance of CCX832 by GSK triggered a $5 million milestone payment to ChemoCentryx.

"The acceptance by GSK of CCX832 for clinical development highlights the culmination of the research term in our strategic alliance.  With this important milestone we have now successfully delivered clinical development candidates for each of the four targets which were defined when we entered into the alliance three and one half years ago," stated Thomas J. Schall, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of ChemoCentryx.  "The nomination of a small molecule antagonist against this novel target underscores our ability to transform cutting edge science into new medicines. We are delighted to demonstrate the broad capability of our proprietary technologies, applicable not only to chemokines, but to related receptors as well."