Inhibition of Lp-PLA2 constitutes an important new avenue to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. It is especially pleasing that the discovery of this drug was enabled by a partnership between GlaxoSmithKline and Human Genome Sciences. To me, this study shows how the genomic approach to small molecule drug discovery can lead to a potential new class of drugs for the treatment of an important disease of man. Inflammation has recently emerged as an important contributing factor to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Drugs that inhibit Lp-PLA2 may reduce the risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation and cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular disease is a major health problem worldwide.
We are proud to have contributed to a new therapeutic approach to the control and treatment of this serious disease. I believe that this example will prove to be a classic in the use of genomics information to provide new drugs for the treatment and cure of many ills of mankind. As the trials progress on this class of compounds, our company will benefit from milestone payments related to clinical progress. Should a drug be commercialized for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, Human Genome Sciences is due significant royalties. Our company also has an option to co-promote an approved drug in the North American and European markets.