The aim with OX-MPI is to develop an effective and safe new drug for the treatment of inflammatory pain, such as from rheumatoid arthritis. Common drugs currently used to treat inflammatory pain are referred to as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as Naproxen. Long-term use of NSAIDs can result in side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding and increased blood pressure.
COX-2 inhibitors, which have a more specific mechanism, were developed to avoid NSAIDs’ side effects and their use grew rapidly. The discovery of a risk of cardiovascular side effects led to several COX-2 inhibitors being withdrawn from the market in 2004. The remaining COX-2 inhibitors and prescription-only NSAIDs also carry warnings for cardiovascular risks.
| Name |
OX-MPI |
| Target indication |
Inflammatory pain |
| Description |
PGE2 inhibitor |
| Phase |
Preclinical |
| Partner |
Boehringer Ingelheim |
OX-MPI is derived from an entirely new mechanism based on the identification of a specific enzyme – membrane-bound prostaglandin (PG) E synthase (mPGES). This enzyme is necessary for the production of PGE2, a substance produced by the body which plays a pivotal role in many inflammatory processes.
The goal for the OX-MPI project is to develop a compound that blocks the mPGES enzyme to prevent the formation of PGE2, leading to reduced inflammation and a reduction in pain. Since the mechanism of action is more selective than NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, OX-MPI offers the potential to be equally effective, but with fewer side effects.
Market
Patients with arthritis are in great need of pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs, and consume a large share of the NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors currently sold. Around 80-100 million patients worldwide are estimated to suffer from arthritis. In 2006, sales of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors amounted to about USD 10bn globally according to IMS.
Project status
An exclusive collaboration and license agreement for the development and commercialization of OX-MPI was signed in November 2005 with Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH. Since then, the collaboration has continued around the development of selective PGE2 inhibitors. Activities are in progress to optimize both the biological effect and other characteristics that are important for an effective and safe drug.