Human Genome Sciences autoimmune, cancer news
Human Genome said it will reduce headcount by 101 (8%) to about 1,200. The cuts will come from manufacturing, R&D and administration. Benlysta belimumab, a human mAb against BLyS (B lymphocyte stimulator protein), is approved in the U.S., EU and Canada to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Human Genome estimated gross Benlysta sales for 2011 of $59.2 million. The product was approved by FDA in March 2011 and in the EU in July 2011.
Human Genome also halted development of HGS1025 and HGS1029 ( AEG40826). HGS1025, a mAb against CC chemokine receptor 5 ( CCR5; CD195), was expected to enter Phase Ib testing for ulcerative colitis. HGS1029, a small-molecule antagonist against inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins, was in Phase I testing for advanced solid and advanced lymphoid tumors. Human Genome has ex-Japanese rights to HGS1029 and related compounds from Aegera Therapeutics Inc., which Pharmascience Inc. (Montreal, Quebec) acquired last year. Details were not disclosed (see BioCentury, Dec. 24, 2007). ...