Ariel Pharmaceuticals in-licenses AP-1531 from BTG for acute migraine attacks

Ariel Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a private, specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of products for acute central nervous system (CNS) diseases and trauma, announced today that it has in-licensed its lead product, AP-1531, for the treatment of acute migraine attacks, from the specialist healthcare company BTG International Ltd (LSE: BGC).

While the precise cause of migraines is not fully understood, changes in vascular tone and inflammatory processes appear to be key contributing factors.  Prostaglandins are naturally existing molecules that are integral components of both vascular and inflammatory reactions in the central and peripheral nervous systems.   There is evidence to demonstrate that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) binding to the EP4 receptor causes dilation of small blood vessels in the brain, while leaving coronary and pulmonary arteries unaffected, and can stimulate a variety of inflammatory mechanisms.  AP-1531 is a potent and selective EP4 receptor antagonist that specifically targets PGE2-EP4 binding which may treat migraines. AP-1531 has shown promising results  in several disease models of migraine and acute pain and inflammation.  

"We are extremely pleased with the data from six Phase I studies on AP-1531 and are confident this approach will yield positive results as we initiate a Phase 2 study in migraine patients in 2012," said Steve Orndorff, President and CEO of Ariel Pharmaceuticals.  "Given that the current standard of care for moderate to severe migraines can take up to 90 minutes to provide relief and works temporarily or not at all in many patients, in addition to having potentially serious side effects, we're committed to developing a safer and more efficacious alternative that will provide better quality care to patients.  We believe AP-1531 will validate our business model of in-licensing clinic-ready drugs in acute care clinical indications to expeditiously build value for our shareholders."