Dr Reddy's in stroke compound supply deal with Sygnis

Indian pharmaceutical company Dr Reddy's Laboratories has signed an exclusive 10-year agreement with Germany-based Sygnis Pharma for the supply of an ingredient used in the treatment of stroke and other neurodegenrative disorders.

The active ingredient is biological molecule AX200, which is being developed by Sygnis. The company successfully completed phase IIa clinical trials of the compound in September 2007, which demonstrated safety and efficacy in patients with acute stroke.

Sygnis plans to begin phase IIb trial in H2 2008. The study will be an efficacy trial in acute stroke. AX200 is the most advanced product in Sygnis' portfolio.

Cartikeya Reddy, head of biologics, at Dr Reddy's, said: "Our strategic decision to exclusively produce a biological molecule for a partner is a first in the history of Dr Reddy's and fits very well within our custom pharmaceutical services' business model. We are very optimistic that AX200 will continue to show real potential in the treatment of acute stroke with the potential to be used in the treatment of other degenerative neurological diseases."