Kazia Therapeutics Sells Cantrixil IP and Trademark Rights for $1 Million

Kazia Therapeutics Limited, an oncology-focused development firm based in Sydney, Australia, has announced a significant transaction involving its drug candidate, Cantrixil. The company reported that it has sold all rights pertaining to the intellectual property and trademarks of Cantrixil to Vivesto for a total of USD $1 million. This deal represents a key milestone for Kazia as it provides a source of non-dilutive funding, critical for further advancing its clinical-stage pipeline.

In March 2021, Vivesto had secured exclusive global rights for the development and commercialization of Cantrixil from Kazia. However, the company has since shifted its strategy, opting not to pursue Cantrixil for the treatment of ovarian cancer as initially planned. Instead, Vivesto is currently exploring the preclinical application of Cantrixil for hematological cancers. Cantrixil is a legacy asset for Kazia, featuring TRXE-002-01, a potent third-generation benzopyran SMETI inhibitor, encapsulated in α-cyclodextrin.

CEO John Friend expressed optimism about the agreement, mentioning that this transaction would significantly contribute to Kazia's ongoing programs. The deal not only strengthens the company’s financial standing but also allows it to focus on advancing its flagship product, paxalisib.

Paxalisib, which is an investigational therapy aimed at infiltrating brain tumors by targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, is at the forefront of Kazia's clinical efforts. The drug was licensed from Genentech in late 2016 and has undergone extensive clinical testing in various brain cancer conditions. Recent trials have reinforced its potential, demonstrated by compelling interim results, especially in glioblastoma—a particularly aggressive type of brain cancer.

Last year, a Phase 2/3 trial, known as GBM-Agile, provided insights that could lead to pivotal studies just as discussions regarding regulatory compliance continue. This showcases the ongoing commitment Kazia has towards brain cancer therapies, with exploratory trials involving paxalisib also underway for breast cancer and primary CNS lymphoma.

Moreover, paxalisib has garnered recognition from health authorities in the form of Orphan Drug Designation and Fast Track Designation from the FDA, aiming for a quicker route to market due to its unique mechanisms.

Kazia Therapeutics has been keen to advance its drug pipeline while balancing financial health, which is reflected in the sale of Cantrixil's rights. The receipt of funds from this transaction allows for a direct reinvestment into clinical developments, further emphasizing Kazia’s ongoing dedication towards innovative cancer therapies.

As they look to the future, Kazia's leadership remains focused on enhancing their portfolio with robust programs aimed at treating advanced cancers, stating intent to continue exploration of both existing and pipeline products. The deal with Vivesto underscores a significant juncture in Kazia’s operational strategy that aims to capitalize on its R&D strengths while ensuring stable financial backing.

For more updates on Kazia Therapeutics and its innovative drug developments, interested parties can visit the company’s website or follow their announcements on social media platforms.