Cytokinetics, GSK end cancer deal

Cytokinetics Inc. (NASDAQ:CYTK) and GlaxoSmithKline plc (LSE:GSK; NYSE:GSK) agreed to terminate a 2001 cancer deal, including returning rights to the biotech for GSK- 923295. GSK will complete an ongoing Phase I trial of the small molecule centromere-associated protein E (CENPE) inhibitor to treat solid tumors. Data from the trial are expected next year. Cytokinetics said the deal's end is in line with its decision to focus on muscle biology. The company plans to partner GSK-923295 and two other cancer compounds, SB-743921 and ispinesib ( SB-715992), for which GSK did not exercise its option last year (See BioCentury Extra, Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2008). ...