TorreyPines Therapeutics, Inc. and Eisai Co., Ltd. have extended their exclusive collaboration agreement that began in February 2005. This collaboration focuses on the discovery of novel, small molecules to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is TorreyPines' second discovery collaboration with Eisai. In a separate series of agreements, dating back to 2001, the two companies are collaborating in a genetics program to discover AD targets using whole-genome family-based association screening.

The goal of the small molecule program is to discover novel AD modifying compounds based on the study of the mechanism of the disease's pathogenesis. Under the original agreement, Eisai has exclusive rights of first negotiation and refusal for validated compounds that are discovered through the research. The two companies may enter into development agreements involving the validated compounds.

"We are excited about extending this agreement with Eisai, a leader in AD research and treatment," said Neil Kurtz, M.D., president and chief executive officer of TorreyPines. "We look forward to advancing the small molecule program further with Eisai's support, as well as to continuing to work with them on our initial research collaboration to identify genetically-validated pharmaceutical targets for AD."

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