Executive Summary
Orexo and Boehringer Ingelheimhave extended their research deal on the development of a prostaglandin (PG) E synthase inhibitor to reduce the production of PGE2, an endogenous substance that affects various inflammatory processes. The agreement, which was signed in 2005, was originally intended to last for three years, but will now be extended for another year from November. Orexo could receive up to €250 million in milestones from the deal. The two companies believe that the inhibitor could have fewer side-effects than existing pain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, due to its selective inhibition. Boehringer Ingelheim will continue to fund the research in Orexo's OX-MPI project and holds exclusive rights to all further compound development and marketing, except in the Nordic and Baltic regions, where the two companies will co-promote any potential products developed.