Novo Nordisk has discontinued its small molecule research in an effort to focus on biopharmaceutical research and its protein-based pharmaceuticals. The decision will affect approximately 180 employees, half of which the company plans to offer other positions.

Since 2002, the company has been increasing its focus on therapeutic proteins and its pipeline of protein-based pharmaceuticals within diabetes, haemostasis, growth disorders and other diseases.

“Our core competences lie within therapeutic proteins, and it is within this area that we can make the greatest difference in terms of patient outcomes and company growth,” said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, chief science officer of Novo Nordisk.

Existing preclinical and clinical small-molecule projects, including NN9101, a glucokinase activator project currently in Phase I testing, are expected to be out-licensed.

Also, Crucell has signed a non-exclusive STAR research license agreement for the production of monoclonal antibodies with Novo Nordisk. STAR technology is useful for increasing production of recombinant antibodies and therapeutic proteins on mammalian cell lines.

Novo Nordisk plans to evaluate the STAR technology using its proprietary mammalian CHO cell line along with its antibodies. Under the terms of the agreement, Novo Nordisk will pay a license issuance fee, a success-based fee and annual maintenance fees, provided the license is extended upon evaluation. Financial details were not disclosed.