Novartis has entered into a strategic alliance with Astex Therapeutics Limited focused on the research, development, and commercialisation of novel cell cycle control drugs for the treatment of cancer and other diseases.

Under the agreement, Novartis has obtained worldwide licensing rights to investigational agent AT9311, an Astex cell cycle inhibitor that is currently completing preclinical studies. Novartis also has an option for a global license to a parenteral cell cycle inhibitor, AT7519, currently in phase I clinical trials, claims a company release.

In addition, the two companies have agreed to establish a new drug discovery alliance focused on the identification of novel inhibitors of other cell-cycle control enzymes. In the US, Astex will have the option to co-market oncology products developed through the alliance.

"As a well-established leader in the development of novel cancer treatments, Novartis has made tremendous scientific contributions toward improving the lives of cancer patients. We believe AT9311 represents a potential best-in-class compound that will compliment our already broad and deep oncology pipeline," said David Epstein, president, Novartis Oncology.

Novartis will make an initial payment and deferred equity commitment to Astex totalling $25 million and will provide research funding, development reimbursements, funding for milestones during clinical development and registration, royalties on sales, and fees related to exercising the option on AT7519.

Astex's lead drug candidate, AT7519, is a potent cell cycle inhibitor that targets key cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). AT7519 entered clinical development during late 2005 in a phase I dose escalation study designed to evaluate its safety and tolerability when delivered intravenously in patients with advanced solid tumours.