GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has entered into an exclusive license agreement for Kissei's novel selective inhibitors of the sodium-dependent renal glucose transporter type 2 (SGLT2). These compounds represent a potential new class of oral antidiabetic agents, which would act by suppressing glucose reabsorption in the kidney, and thus increasing the excretion of excess glucose from the body. This mechanism may help relieve hyperglycemia without placing additional stress on pancreatic beta cells, which fail over time with the onset of type 2 diabetes to produce enough insulin to adequately absorb excess blood sugar.

Under the agreement, Kissei has granted GlaxoSmithKline the exclusive rights to develop and market these compounds worldwide, excluding Japan, Korea, China and Taiwan. Kissei will receive upfront fees, royalties, and milestone payments related to development and commercialisation success from GlaxoSmithKline.

Kissei has almost completed preclinical studies with the most advanced agent in this series, which is planned to enter Phase I in the first quarter of 2003. GlaxoSmithKline will undertake the further development of the lead compound and guide commercialisation in all territories excluding Japan, China, Korea and Taiwan.