BioRelix, Merck enter research collaboration to identify new antibacterial drug candidates

BioRelix, Inc. today announced that it has entered into a research collaboration agreement with a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. to identify new antibacterial drug candidates.

“Collaborations with companies like BioRelix are essential as we seek to apply the latest innovative drug discovery technologies towards the discovery of new much needed antibacterial medications”

Under the agreement, BioRelix will apply its proprietary riboswitch technology platform to identify compounds with activity against a number of bacterial targets. The parties will jointly undertake preclinical programs, and Merck will subsequently be responsible for clinical evaluation of any candidates chosen for further development. Merck will pay BioRelix an upfront fee and provide research funding. In addition, BioRelix is eligible to receive payments upon achievement of specified milestones associated with advancement of drug candidates and royalties on the sales of any products derived from the collaboration.

"There is a tremendous patient need for new agents against difficult to treat and drug resistant infections," stated Brian Dixon, Chief Executive Officer of BioRelix. "We're delighted to combine our technology with such a capable partner in order to provide new mechanisms and new chemistry to fight these life threatening diseases."

"Collaborations with companies like BioRelix are essential as we seek to apply the latest innovative drug discovery technologies towards the discovery of new much needed antibacterial medications," said Roger Pomerantz, MD, senior vice president, and Global Franchise Head, Infectious Diseases, Merck Research Laboratories.