Scynexis Inc has broadened the scope and extended the term of its research agreement to discover and develop novel compounds for central nervous system and metabolic diseases with Roche. The transaction includes access by Roche to the Scynexis Medchem-Factory technology and HEOS Hit Explorer Operating System software.

This will accelerate the identification of novel leads against Roche's drug targets by producing large, focused, high-purity compound libraries and then utilizing rapid lead optimization to identify clinical candidates.

Specific financial terms were not disclosed. However, Roche will receive exclusive worldwide rights to products developed through the collaboration in exchange for technology access fees and other compensation for Scynexis technologies and services.

"Roche is very pleased with the success of this collaboration. We are looking forward to a continued productive interaction with Scynexis," said Dr. Hans-Joachim Boehm, Head of Discovery Chemistry, Roche Basel.

"Scynexis welcomes the expansion of its relationship with Roche. This is recognition of Scynexis' ability to accelerate the discovery of novel compounds for Roche through the combination of expertise and patented technologies," said Dr. Yves J. Ribeill, President & CEO of Scynexis.

Scynexis is headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina with European operations, Scynexis Europe Ltd., located near Cambridge, England. By combining its chemists' expertise with its proprietary Medchem-Factory technology and Hit Explorer Operating System (HEOS), Scynexis is increasing the productivity and speed of the pharmaceutical discovery process. As an innovator in the field of high-speed synthesis with special expertise in the area of automation, Scynexis is reshaping the process of discovery and optimization of new, promising chemical compounds.