Press Releases
2008
Royal Society of Chemistry recognises Astex Scientists
Cambridge, UK, 22nd April 2008
Cambridge, UK, 22nd April 2008. Astex Therapeutics announced today that Dr. Harren Jhoti, Founder and CEO and Dr. David Rees, VP Medicinal Chemistry, have both been recognised with prestigious awards from the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). The RSC is the largest organisation in Europe for advancing the chemical sciences.
Astex Drug Candidates to be Presented at the 2008 AACR Annual Meeting
Cambridge, UK, 8th April 2008
Cambridge, UK, 8th April 2008. Astex Therapeutics announced today that data on three of its drug candidates, AT7519, AT9283 and an FGFr kinase inhibitor, will be presented at the 2008 AACR Annual Conference, to be held April 12-16, 2008 in San Diego. All three drug candidates were discovered internally using Astex’s industry-leading fragment-based drug discovery platform, Pyramid™.
Astex Receives IND Approval for its Small Molecule HSP90 Inhibitor AT13387; Astex Announces Extension of Drug Discovery Alliance
Cambridge, UK, 6th February 2008
Astex Therapeutics announced today that it has received approval of its Investigational New Drug (IND) application from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for AT13387, a selective small molecule inhibitor of Heat Shock Protein 90 (Hsp90) to treat cancer. This is the third IND candidate from Astex’s internal discovery and development programmes to be approved. The Company’s other clinical stage products, AT9283, a multi-targeted kinase inhibitor, and AT7519, a cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor, received IND approvals in 2006 and 2005 respectively. Astex plans to begin clinical trials of AT13387 in cancer patients during 2008. Preclinical data showing efficacy for AT13387 in tumour models was presented at the American Association for Cancer Research annual meeting in April 2007.
2007
Astex Drug Candidates to be Presented at the 2007 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting
Cambridge, UK, 29th November 2007
Astex Therapeutics Ltd. today announced that data on its drug candidates AT9283, AT7519 and AT9311 will be presented at the American Society of Hematology’s 49th Annual Meeting and Exposition, 8-11th December 2007, at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia.
Astex Drug Candidates to be Featured at the 2007 AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics
Cambridge, UK, 18th October 2007
Astex Therapeutics Ltd. today announced that data on two of its drug candidates, AT7519 and AT13148, will be presented at the 2007 AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics, to be held October 22-26, 2007 in San Francisco.
Astex Grants Cytochrome P450 License to GlaxoSmithKline
Cambridge, UK, 24th April 2007.
Astex Therapeutics today announced that it has granted a non-exclusive, worldwide license to its cytochrome P450 intellectual property to GlaxoSmithKline. Under the terms of the agreement, GlaxoSmithKline will pay an up-front fee to Astex in return for a license under Astex’s portfolio of granted and pending cytochrome P450 patents. The specific financial terms and other details of the license were not disclosed.
2006
Astex Therapeutics Appoints John Aston Chief Financial Officer
Cambridge UK, 4th December 2006
Astex Therapeutics (“Astex”) is pleased to announce that John Aston (52) has joined the Company as Chief Financial Officer and a member of its Board of Directors.
Astex patents granted covering the use of key human cytochrome P450 structures
Cambridge, UK, 17th October 2006
Astex Therapeutics today announced the grant of two patents covering the use of the crystal structures of human cytochrome P450 enzymes. Cytochromes P450 are among the most significant proteins involved in the body’s break-down of drug products and are widely used in pharmaceutical industry research and development. The two patents awarded to Astex are European patent EP1 438 337 covering the use of the crystal structure of human cytochrome P450 2C9 and GB 2 408 509 which covers the use of the crystal structure of human cytochrome P450 3A4. Astex now has three granted patents covering this family of enzymes.
Astex Therapeutics initiates clinical trial with investigational anti-cancer drug AT9283
Cambridge, UK, 26th September 2006
Astex Therapeutics today announced that it had begun dosing first patients in a Phase I/IIa clinical trial of its investigational anti-cancer drug AT9283. Astex discovered AT9283, a potent inhibitor of Aurora kinases, using its innovative fragment-based drug discovery technology, Pyramid™.
New anti-cancer drug discovery alliance between GlaxoSmithKline, the Wellcome Trust and The Institute of Cancer Research, focused on B-RAF inhibitors, builds on partnership between Astex, the Wellcome Trust, the Institute of Cancer Research and Cancer Research Technology.
London, UK, 27th July 2006
The Wellcome Trust and The Institute of Cancer Research announce new anti-cancer drug discovery alliance with GlaxoSmithKline
Astex announces new Chief Executive Officer
Cambridge, UK, 10th May 2006
Astex Therapeutics, one of Europe’s premier biotechnology companies, today announced the appointment of Leon Bushara as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Astex Therapeutics announces IND approval for novel cancer drug AT9283
Cambridge, UK, April 25th April 2006
Astex Therapeutics, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for the clinical development of its proprietary Aurora Kinase inhibitor, AT9283, for the treatment of cancer. AT9283 was discovered and developed internally using Astex’s fragment-based drug discovery platform, Pyramid™.
Astex announces new drug discovery collaboration with University of Newcastle upon Tyne and Cancer Research Technology Limited
Cambridge, UK, 13th March 2006
Astex Therapeutics today announced a new drug discovery collaboration with the University of Newcastle upon Tyne and Cancer Research Technology (CRT). The collaboration will aim to identify small molecule inhibitors of the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFr) tyrosine kinase family suitable for treatment of diseases including multiple myeloma, prostate cancer and other tumour types in which FGFr signalling is deregulated. Under the terms of the agreement, Astex will provide funding to the University to support the development of model cell systems to test novel drug compounds being developed by Astex. The University and CRT are eligible to receive milestone payments as drug compounds resulting from the collaboration are successfully developed and commercialised by Astex. Further financial details were not disclosed.
Astex grants Cytochrome P450 license to Pfizer
Cambridge, UK, 24th January 2006
Astex Therapeutics today announced that it has granted a non-exclusive, worldwide license to its Cytochrome P450 intellectual property to Pfizer Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, Pfizer will pay an up-front fee to Astex in return for a license under Astex’s portfolio of granted and pending Cytochrome P450 patents. The specific financial terms and other details of the license were not disclosed.
2005
Astex Announces New Licensing and Drug Discovery Alliance to Develop Novel Cell Cycle Cancer Drugs
Cambridge, UK, 6th December 2005
Astex Therapeutics today announced a major new strategic alliance with Novartis focused on the research, development and commercialization of novel cell cycle control drugs for the treatment of cancers and other human diseases. The new agreement grants Novartis a worldwide license to Astex’s novel oral cell cycle inhibitor, AT9311, currently completing IND-enabling preclinical studies, and an option for a global license to Astex’s parenteral cell cycle inhibitor, AT7519, currently in Phase 1 clinical trials. AT7519 and AT9311 were both discovered using Astex’s proprietary fragment-based drug discovery platform, PyramidTM. In addition, the parties are to establish a new drug discovery alliance focused on the identification of novel inhibitors of other cell-cycle control enzymes.
Astex announces new drug discovery collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim
Cambridge, UK, 31st August 2005
Astex Therapeutics today announced a new drug discovery alliance with Boehringer Ingelheim to discover, develop and commercialize novel drug candidates against undisclosed targets in different therapeutic areas.
AstraZeneca and Astex announce new anti-cancer drug discovery alliance
Cambridge, UK, 27th July 2005
AstraZeneca and Astex form new strategic alliance to discover, develop and commercialise novel small molecule inhibitors of the anti-cancer target Protein Kinase B (Akt).
Astex Technology changes name to Astex Therapeutics
Cambridge, UK, 11 July 2005
Cambridge, UK, July 11th 2005. Astex Technology, the fragment based drug discovery and development company, today announced that it has changed its name to Astex Therapeutics Limited. The change has been made to reflect the continuing evolution of the Company now that a number of its ‘in-house’ discovered oncology products have progressed into full pre-clinical and clinical development. The Astex website (www.astex-therapeutics.com) has also been re-launched to reflect the new positioning as a clinical stage drug discovery and development company.
Astex announces IND approval for novel cancer drug AT7519
Cambridge, UK, June 27 2005.
Astex, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for the clinical development of its proprietary cell cycle inhibitor, AT7519, for the treatment of cancer. AT7519 was discovered and developed internally using Astex’s fragment-based drug discovery platform, Pyramid™, and progressed from first synthesis to regulatory approval in just 14 months. The Company is in the process of initiating a multi-centre Phase I trial of AT7519 in patients with refractory solid tumours in the US and in the UK.
Astex announces Clinical Trial Authorization for novel cancer drug AT7519 and plans for two further new drug filings in the next nine months
Cambridge, UK, May 23 2005.
Astex, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced that the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved its Clinical Trial Authorisation (CTA) application for the clinical development of its proprietary cell cycle inhibitor, AT7519, for the treatment of cancer. The Company now plans to initiate a multi-centre Phase I trial of AT7519 in patients with refractory solid tumours.
Neil Gallagher, MD PhD, joins Astex as Director of Clinical Development
Cambridge, UK, March 7 2005.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced the appointment of Neil Gallagher, MD PhD, as Director of Clinical Development. Dr Gallagher will be responsible for implementing clinical plans for the development of Astex's pipeline of novel drug candidates, the first of which is targeted to enter Phase I clinical trials later this year.
Astex achieves drug discovery milestone with Boehringer Ingelheim
Cambridge, UK, February 14 2005.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced that it has successfully achieved the first milestone in its drug discovery collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Dr Peter Ringrose joins Astex Board
Cambridge, UK, February 1 2005.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced the appointment of Dr Peter Ringrose to its Board. Dr Ringrose brings more than 30 years of pharmaceutical industry experience and will strengthen Astex’s board as the Company prepares to take the first of its oncology drugs into the clinic during 2005.
Astex granted patent covering use of crystal structure of human cytochrome P450 3A4, the most important drug metabolising enzyme in man
Cambridge, UK, January 24 2005.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced issuance of patent GB2395718 covering the use of the crystal structure of human cytochrome P450 3A4, the most important drug metabolising enzyme in man. It is estimated that as many as 50% of all known drugs interact with this form of cytochrome P450 and as such it represents a major problem for drug developers.
2004
Astex chosen by the World Economic Forum as a Technology Pioneer for 2005
Cambridge, UK, December 6 2004.
Astex, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, has been selected as a Technology Pioneer for the World Economic Forum today. The Technology Pioneers Program was established in order to highlight companies that are developing new technologies with the potential to substantially impact business and society in the future. Astex is one of only 29 companies chosen this year, and the only UK biotechnology company.
Astex awarded The Sunday Times Microsoft Tech Track 100 Research and Development Award 2004
Cambridge, UK, December 2 2004.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, received the Research and Development Award 2004 at the Sunday Times Microsoft Tech Track 100 awards ceremony held on the 30th November. The award recognises Astex’s pioneering research and development into novel drugs to treat major diseases including cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Astex has ranked as the fastest growing UK biotechnology company in the Tech Track 100 league for the past two years and is one of a select few biotechnology companies to be included in the annual Tech Track 100 since its launch in 2001.
Astex achieves drug discovery collaboration success with Schering AG
Cambridge, UK, October 25 2004.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced that it has completed a significant goal in its multi-target drug discovery collaboration with Schering AG. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Astex strengthens management team - Martin Buckland joins as Senior Vice President, Business Development
Cambridge, UK, October 11 2004.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced the appointment of Dr Martin Buckland as Senior Vice President, Business Development. Dr Buckland will join the Astex Management Team and oversee the company's business and commercial development strategy as well as leading any corporate transactions that the company undertakes.
Astex ranked top biotech company for the second year running in The Sunday Times Microsoft Tech Track 100
Cambridge, UK, October 5 2004.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, is again ranked as the fastest growing biotechnology company in the Sunday Times Microsoft Tech Track 100 league of Britain’s fastest growing technology companies, published Sunday 3rd October. Astex is one of only a small group of biotechnology companies to have made it onto the annual Tech Track 100 since the list was first compiled in 2001.
Astex reveals structure of key drug metabolizing enzyme - cytochrome P450 3A4 - in Science
Cambridge, UK, July 16 2004.
Cambridge, UK, 16th July 2004 - Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced that its scientists had published the 3-dimensional structure of human cytochrome P450 3A4, the most important drug metabolising enzyme. The crystal structure of the protein is reported in the leading science journal Science1. This is the first time this structure has been published and follows another world first when Astex published in Nature2 the first 3-dimensional crystal structure of a human cytochrome P450 protein, CYP450 2C9. CYP450 3A4 is one of four key enzymes that are responsible for metabolizing more than 90% of drugs and cause significant attrition in the drug development process.
Astex extends research collaboration with Aventis
Cambridge, UK, June 8 2004.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery and development company, today announced that it has extended its existing structural biology research agreement with Aventis in the area of cytochrome P450s.
Under the terms of the extension, Aventis has agreed that Astex will continue to supply Aventis with its proprietary crystal structures of human drug-metabolising cytochrome P450s. The original research agreement was signed in March 2002. Financial details were not disclosed.
Astex achieves second milestone in Alzheimer’s drug discovery collaboration with AstraZeneca
Cambridge, UK, April 19 2004.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced that it has received the second milestone payment from AstraZeneca as part of its collaboration to identify novel drugs against a key protein target implicated in Alzheimer’s disease.
Astex, The Wellcome Trust, The Institute of Cancer Research and Cancer Research Technology announce major cancer drug discovery collaboration
Cambridge, UK, March 22 2004.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, together with The Wellcome Trust, the Institute of Cancer Research and Cancer Research Technology today announced an exclusive collaboration relating to the discovery of novel drugs against the cancer target BRAF.
Astex announces drug discovery alliance with Boehringer Ingelheim
Cambridge, UK, March 9 2004.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced a three year, multi-target-based, alliance with Boehringer Ingelheim for the discovery of novel drugs for various therapeutic indications. This new collaboration, will apply Astex’s proprietary fragment based discovery approach, Pyramid™, to generate novel lead series against targets selected by Boehringer Ingelheim. Boehringer Ingelheim will be responsible for all clinical development and has an option to obtain worldwide exclusive marketing rights for all identified compounds.
2003
Astex strengthens oncology expertise - Director of Oncology joins management team
Cambridge, UK, November 12 2003.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced the appointment of Dr John Lyons as Director of Oncology. Dr Lyons will oversee the pre-clinical development of drug candidates emerging from Astex’s drug discovery projects in oncology and further expand the Company’s growing capability in drug and clinical development.
Astex announces merger with metaGen Pharmaceuticals GmbH and improves cash position by £23m
Cambridge, UK, October 31 2003.
Astex Technology Ltd, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced that it is to merge with Berlin-based oncology specialist, metaGen Pharmaceuticals GmbH. As a result of this transaction, the Company has improved its cash position by £23m ($39m), consisting of funds resulting from the metaGen merger and investment by Astex’s existing investors.
Astex and Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre announce further research collaboration
Cambridge, UK, October 21 2003.
Astex Technology Ltd., the fragment-based drug discovery company, and Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre (CCDC) today announced a further research collaboration which builds on a highly successful initial 2 year relationship. Under the terms of the new agreement, Astex will continue to contribute to the development of GOLD, CCDC’s leading docking software, and will exploit the software as part of its virtual screening and docking program. Astex will also collaborate on other CCDC software programs of use in its drug discovery projects and will develop new methods to enhance the capabilities of the software for CCDC. The agreement, unique in its scope, puts Astex in an exclusive position amongst drug discovery companies in the extent of its access to the GOLD technology.
Astex ranked in the top 20 of The Sunday Times ARM Tech Track 100
Cambridge, UK, September 29 2003.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, is ranked 12th in the Sunday Times ARM Tech Track 100 league of Britain’s fastest growing technology companies, published Sunday 28th September. Astex is one of only a small group of biotechnology companies to have made it onto the annual ARM Tech Track 100 since the list was first compiled in 2001. The company is ranked as the fastest growing technology company in the Cambridge area, long-renowned for the development of innovative technology companies.
Astex achieves milestone in Alzheimer’s drug discovery collaboration with AstraZeneca
Cambridge, UK, September 22 2003.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced that it has received the first research and development milestone payment from AstraZeneca as part of its collaboration to identify novel drugs against a key protein target implicated in Alzheimer’s disease.
Astex and Fujisawa announce structure-based drug discovery agreement
Cambridge, UK and Osaka, Japan, August 19 2003.
Astex Technology Ltd, the fragment-based drug discovery company, and Fujisawa Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, today announced a structural biology research agreement to facilitate the rapid design and development of drug candidates. The collaboration will focus on solving novel human cytochrome P450 crystal structures that will be used to optimise Fujisawa's compounds and so improve the success rate of drug development.
Astex reveals the first structure of a Human Cytochrome P450 involved in drug metabolism
Cambridge, UK, July 14 2003.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced that its scientists had published the first 3-dimensional crystal structure of a Human Cytochrome P450 protein. The structure of the protein, known as CYP450 2C9, is reported in the leading science journal Nature . CYP450 2C9 is one of four key enzymes that are responsible for metabolizing more than 90% of drugs and cause significant attrition in the drug development process. Knowledge of how drugs bind to CYP450s, such as 2C9, is being exploited by Astex to enable the design of new drug molecules with reduced CYP450 liabilities. Astex has filed patents on the use of the crystal structure and is sharing this information through research collaborations with a select number of pharmaceutical company partners.
Astex Technology’s new research and development facility opened by Lord Sainsbury
Cambridge, UK, July 11 2003.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced the official opening of its new, 36,000 ft2 research and development facility on the Cambridge Science Park. Lord Sainsbury, Minister for Science and Innovation, performed the opening ceremony. During an afternoon of presentations and tours of the facilities, guests were given an overview of the recent progress the Company has made, together with its plans for the future.
Astex extends research collaboration with AstraZeneca
Cambridge, UK, July 7 2003.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced that it has extended its existing research collaboration agreement with AstraZeneca AB (NYSE AZN) in the area of cytochrome P450s. Under the terms of the 3-year extension, Astex will continue to apply its high-throughput X-ray crystallography (HTX®) technology to obtain crystal structures of human cytochrome P450s alone and in complex with AstraZeneca’s compounds. Financial details were not disclosed.
Astex discovers novel form of a key protein implicated in diabetes and obesity
Cambridge, UK, June 12 2003.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company, today announced that its scientists have made a major discovery relating to a key protein implicated in diabetes and obesity. The work describes a novel form of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and is reported in the latest edition of the leading science journal Nature . Astex scientists used the Company’s proprietary structural biology technologies to determine the three-dimensional shape of a novel form of PTP1B that may have major implications for its biological function and role in disease.
Astex and Schering AG announce multi-target drug discovery alliance with focus on cancer drugs
Cambridge, UK and Berlin, Germany, May 6 2003.
Astex Technology, the fragment-based drug discovery company and Schering AG (FSE:SCH; NYSE:SHR), today announced a major multi-target drug discovery alliance. The four year agreement relates to the discovery of novel drugs for various therapeutic indications especially focusing on orally available small molecule drugs targeting solid tumors. Schering will fund Astex’s research programs relating to the collaboration, providing discovery and clinical milestone payments plus royalties based on the sales of each product which reaches market approval. Schering will be responsible for clinical development and has an option to retain worldwide exclusive marketing rights for all identified compounds. Under the terms of the agreement, multiple targets will be selected each year with an option to extend the collaboration for a further four-year term to include additional targets.
Astex announces drug discovery collaboration with the Institute of Cancer Research and Cancer Research Technology
Cambridge, UK, March 20 2003.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced an exclusive research collaboration and licence agreement with the Institute of Cancer Research and Cancer Research Technology, the technology transfer company of Cancer Research UK, relating to the discovery of novel drugs against the enzyme protein kinase B (also known as AKT). Protein kinase B is a key target implicated in a variety of diseases, and is responsible for the inappropriate growth and survival of tumour cells in cancer.
Astex announces Alzheimer’s drug discovery collaboration with AstraZeneca
Cambridge, UK, March 3 2003.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced a collaboration with AstraZeneca. The agreement relates to the discovery of novel drugs against a key protein target implicated in Alzheimer’s disease. AstraZeneca will fund Astex’s research programme and will provide milestone payments of approximately $40m, in addition to royalties based on sales of an approved product.
Astex appoints Director of Medicinal Chemistry
Cambridge, UK, January 22 2003.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced the appointment of Dr David Rees to the position of Director of Medicinal Chemistry. Dr Rees will oversee the increasing number of medicinal chemistry projects and collaborations, and help further expand Astex’s chemistry team.
2002
Astex reviews key achievements in 2002
Cambridge, UK, December 12 2002.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today gives a review of the progress made in 2002 and comments on the outlook for the next twelve months.
Astex expands patent portfolio
Cambridge, UK, December 9 2002
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced the issuance of a patent (US Patent No. 6,484,103) covering the structure of a key protein for antimicrobial drug discovery. The Company also reported that they have received a Notice of Allowance from the US Patent and Trademark Office for a second antimicrobial drug target.
Astex joins structural biology partnership at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility
Cambridge, UK, November 11 2002.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced that it has joined the new Partnership for Structural Biology (PSB) established at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), Grenoble, France. PSB membership will provide Astex with guaranteed access to the new, state-of-the-art, X-ray beamline dedicated to macromolecular structural biology, facilitating continued application of Astex’s high-throughput X-ray crystallography technology (HTX®) to drug discovery.
Astex determines structure of the key drug metabolising enzyme – human cytochrome P450 3A4
Cambridge, UK, October 28 2002.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced that it has solved the 3-dimensional crystal structure of human cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). This important discovery will enable drugs to be rationally designed to reduce metabolic and toxicity problems caused by their interactions with CYP3A4.
Astex announces drug discovery collaboration with Mitsubishi Pharma Corporation
Cambridge, UK, October 21 2002
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced a drug discovery collaboration in the area of metabolic disorders with Mitsubishi Pharma Corporation. The collaboration has been established to identify novel lead compounds against a key protein target and will then be extended to other targets.
Astex Technology appoints Dr Lyn Leaper as Vice President of Intellectual Property
Cambridge, UK, October 15 2002
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced the appointment of Dr Lyn Leaper as Vice President of Intellectual Property. Dr Leaper, a qualified European Patent Attorney, will be responsible for the management and further development of Astex’s Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and portfolio.
Aventis Pharmaceuticals makes milestone payment to Astex in cytochrome P450 collaboration
Cambridge, UK, September 4 2002
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced that it has received the first milestone payment from Aventis Pharmaceuticals, as part of a structural biology research agreement focused on solving novel human cytochrome P450 crystal structures. This initial milestone payment is related to Astex’s previously reported determination of the first 3-dimensional structure of a human cytochrome P450 enzyme.
Tornado Insider Top 100
Tornado Insider, August 28 2002.
Astex listed as a Tornado Insider Top 100 company.
Astex announces structure-based drug discovery agreement with Mitsubishi Pharma Corporation
Cambridge, UK, June 10 2002.
Astex Technology, the UK structure-based drug discovery company, today announced a structural biology research agreement with Mitsubishi Pharma Corporation to facilitate the rapid design and development of drug candidates. The collaboration will focus on solving novel human cytochrome P450 crystal structures that will be used in optimization of Mitsubishi’s compounds, and so provide greater potential for their clinical success.
TIME - Europe's Hottest Tech Firms
TIME DIGITAL, May 27 2002.
Astex featured in TIME Europe's Hot Company list.
Astex announces appointment of Vice President of Biology
Cambridge, UK, May 14 2002
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company pioneering the use of high throughput X-ray crystallography technology, today announced the appointment of Dr Neil Thompson to the position of Vice President of Biology.
Astex and Maybridge announce exclusive lead discovery collaboration
Cambridge, UK, and Cornwall, UK, May 7 2002
Astex Technology, the private, structure-based drug discovery company, and Maybridge plc, a world leader in the supply of small molecule screening compounds, building blocks and associated chemistries, today announced a collaboration based on in silico screening of proprietary molecular libraries and synthetic chemistry. The collaboration combines Astex’s unique approach to structure-based screening with Maybridge’s vast collection of proprietary chemistries.
Peter Fellner joins Astex as Chairman
Cambridge, UK, April 16 2002.
Astex Technology, the UK structure-based drug discovery company, today announced the appointment of Peter Fellner as non-executive Chairman of the Board. Dr Fellner, CEO of Celltech Group plc, brings significant experience as a senior executive in both the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
Astex utilizes Daylight chemical information software for drug discovery
Cambridge, UK, and Mission Viejo, CA, April 8 2002.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company pioneering the use of high throughput X-ray crystallography technology, and Daylight Chemical Information Systems, Inc., the leading cheminformatics innovator in the life science industry, today announced that Astex has licensed Daylight software, further strengthening its drug discovery capabilities.
Astex announces structure-based drug discovery collaboration with Aventis Pharmaceuticals
Cambridge, UK, March 25 2002.
Astex Technology, the private, structure-based drug discovery company, today announced a structural biology research agreement with Aventis Pharmaceuticals to facilitate the rapid design and development of drug candidates. The collaboration, Astex’s second of this type, will focus on solving novel human cytochrome P450 crystal structures that will be used in the optimization of Aventis’ compounds and so provide greater potential for their clinical success.
Astex receives milestone payment from AstraZeneca for human cytochrome P450 program
Cambridge, UK, March 25 2002.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, announced today that it has received the first milestone payment from AstraZeneca AB, as part of a structural biology research agreement focused on solving novel human cytochrome P450 crystal structures. The payment is related to Astex’s determination of the first 3-dimensional structure of a human cyotchrome P450 enzyme, announced at the end of 2001.
Astex appoints Director of Biophysics
Cambridge, UK, February 20 2002.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company pioneering the use of high throughput X-ray crystallography technology, today announced the appointment of Dr Glyn Williams to the position of Director of Biophysics. Dr Williams will implement biophysical methods for ligand screening in Astex’s lead discovery programs.
Astex announces plans for new, purpose-built facility on Cambridge Science Park.
Cambridge, UK, January 23 2002
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company pioneering the use of high throughput X-ray crystallography technology, today announced the construction of a 36,000 sq.ft. purpose-built facility on the Cambridge Science Park. This new building will support the further expansion of the company and enable the continued development of its leading edge technologies for identification of novel small-molecule therapeutics.
2001
Astex solves first structure of a human cytochrome P450, a key enzyme in drug metabolism and toxicity.
Cambridge, UK, December 17 2001.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company pioneering the use of high throughput X-ray crystallography (HTX™) technology, today announced that it has solved the first 3-dimensional crystal structure of a human cytochrome P450 enzyme. This important discovery will enable drugs to be rationally designed to reduce metabolic and toxicity problems.
Astex raises an additional £5.7m ($8.1m)
Cambridge, UK, December 17 2001.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company pioneering the use of high throughput X-ray crystallography (HTX™) technology, today announced the receipt of a further £5.7m ($8.1m) from its current investors: Abingworth, Advent International, Alta Partners, GIMV and Oxford Bioscience Partners. These additional funds will enable the company to continue building its structure-based drug discovery technologies for the identification of novel small-molecule therapeutics.
Astex Technology Appoints Jon S. Saxe to Board of Directors
Cambridge, UK, November 20 2001.
Astex Technology, the UK structure-based drug discovery company, today announced the appointment of Jon Saxe to the Board.
Astex Technology acquires novel robotic technology for high throughput x-ray crystallography.
Cambridge, UK, June 27 2001
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced that it will receive the first ACTOR (automated crystal transport, orientation and retrieval) system from Rigaku/MSC, Inc (The Woodlands, TX). The ACTOR automated crystal mounting and data collection technology will dramatically increase the throughput of Astex’s x-ray crystallography for rapid protein structure determination and drug discovery.
Astex Technology joins Global Phasing consortium to collaborate on macromolecular crystal structure determination projects
Cambridge, UK, June 11 2001.
Astex Technology Ltd, the structure-based drug discovery company, has joined the Global Phasing Ltd consortium, gaining access to the most advanced versions of Global Phasing’s macromolecular crystal structure determination and refinement software for use in its drug discovery programs.
Astex and Daresbury Laboratory announce agreement to accelerate drug discovery using high capacity X-ray crystallography.
Cambridge, UK, May 9 2001.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, and the Daresbury Analytical Research and Technology Service (DARTS) today announced the establishment of a contractual agreement for Astex to access the Synchrotron Radiation Source (SRS) at the Daresbury Laboratory, UK.
Astex raises £22.7m for structure-based drug discovery research
Cambridge, UK, May 4 2001.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company pioneering the use of high throughput X-ray crystallography (HTX™), today announced the closing of a £22.7m ($32.5m) private financing round.
Astex and AstraZeneca announce structural biology research agreement on cytochrome P450
Cambridge, UK and Molndal, Sweden, May 3 2001.
Astex Technology Ltd, a private structure-based drug discovery company, and AstraZeneca AB (NYSE: AZN) today announced a major structural biology research agreement focused on solving novel cytochrome P450 crystal structures. These structures will be used to optimise AstraZeneca's compounds and so improve the success rate of drug development.
Astex announces structure-based drug development program on cytochrome P450
Cambridge, UK, May 3 2001.
Astex Technology, the structure-based drug discovery company, today announced a major research program aimed at elucidating the crystal structures of key human cytochrome P450 proteins. These structures will assist pharmaceutical partners to rationally optimize their lead compounds and reduce attrition rates in drug development programs. Astex has recruited José Cosme, PhD, and Pamela Williams, PhD, who were both involved in solving the first crystal structure of a mammalian cytochrome P450, to lead the research program.
Astex Technology announces appointment of Vice President of Drug Discovery and Commercial Director
Cambridge, UK, March 28 2001.
2001 Astex Technology Ltd, a structure-based drug discovery company, today announced the appointment of two leading scientists to newly created management roles within the company. Robin Carr, PhD, joins as Vice President of Drug Discovery, and Nigel Crockett, PhD, joins as Commercial Director.
Astex Technology announces an exclusive research collaboration with Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre
Cambridge, UK, March 21 2001.
2001 Astex Technology Ltd and Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre (CCDC), today announced an exclusive research collaboration for the use of CCDC’s GOLD program in the development of Astex’s virtual screening and docking technologies.
Astex Technology announces the appointment of leading scientists to key positions within the company
Cambridge, UK, February 27 2001.
Astex Technology Ltd, a structure-based drug discovery company, today announced the appointment of two principal scientists to senior positions within the company.
2000
Astex Technology obtains access to leading edge X-ray detector technology and synchrotron light source
Cambridge, UK, September 26 2000.
Astex Technology, the biotechnology company specialising in High Throughput X-ray Crystallography, today announced that it will be the first commercial recipient worldwide of the latest technology for X-ray data collection. The Jupiter CCD machines, from Rigaku MSC (Texas, USA), will dramatically reduce the time it takes to complete the X-ray analysis of protein crystals. The new machines will play a central role in the implementation of Astex's high throughput X-ray crystallography (HTX™) technology. The company works with pharmaceutical and biotechnology partners to provide this technology for rational drug design.
Anne Campbell MP opens new headquarters for Astex Technology Ltd
Cambridge, UK, September 8 2000.
This afternoon saw the formal opening of Astex Technology Ltd's new headquarters at the Cambridge Science Park, UK, with the ceremony being performed by Anne Campbell, MP for Cambridge. The site, which includes both laboratories and corporate offices, covers 10,000 sq ft.
Astex Technology expands its Scientific Advisory Board and appoints Professor Steven Ley and Professor Robert Stroud
Cambridge, UK, August 2 2000.
Astex Technology, the UK biotechnology company specialising in high throughput X-ray crystallography, today announced the appointment of Professors Steven Ley and Bob Stroud to its Scientific Advisory Board. This further strengthens the Board that includes Prof. Sir Tom Blundell (Chairman), Head of the Biochemistry Department at Cambridge University, and Dr Chris Abell, (a Reader in the Department of Chemistry) and Dr Roberto Solari, (former Head of Cell Biology at GlaxoWellcome). Steven Ley is currently the BP (1702) Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Cambridge, and Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. Prof. Ley has pioneered the discovery and development of novel synthetic technologies and their application to biologically active systems. He is also a key advisor to many UK research funding institutions, including the BBSRC, as well as major pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer & Novartis. Prof. Ley's contributions to science have been recognised by numerous awards such as the Rhone-Poulenc Lectureship and Medal of the Royal Society of Chemistry and the GlaxoWellcome Award for Outstanding Achievement in Organic Chemistry. In 1990 he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (London). Robert Stroud is Professor of Biochemistry & Biophysics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry at UCSF, San Francisco. Prof. Stroud's research interests include understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in key biological processes, including signal transduction, using X-ray crystallography. He has pioneered the use of structure-based drug design on many targets including Thymidylate Synthase and HIV/SIV proteins.
Astex announces a new collaboration with Janssen Research Foundation
Cambridge, UK, October 24 2000.
Astex Technology Ltd today announced that it has signed a second research agreement with Janssen Research Foundation.
Astex Technology appoints Chief Executive
Cambridge, UK, June 27 2000.
Astex Technology, the UK Biotechnology Company specialising in high throughput X-ray crystallography, today announced the appointment of Timothy Haines as Chief Executive.
Astex Technology announces first deal with a major pharmaceutical company
Cambridge, UK, April 16 2000.
At the European Life Sciences Conference, Amsterdam, Astex announced that it had signed its first research agreement with a major pharmaceutical company. Harren Jhoti, Astex's VP of Research, while describing the company's high throughput X-ray crystallography technology said 'We are confident that our novel discovery platforms can significantly accelerate the process of identifying drug candidates. We are delighted to announce that we will apply these technologies for the benefit of our first corporate customer, Janssen Research Foundation.'
Dr Tim Rink joins the Board of Astex Technology
Cambridge, UK, April 4 2000.
Astex Technology, a new UK Biotechnology Company specialising in high throughput X-ray crystallography, today announced the appointment of Timothy Rink, MA, MD, ScD, to the post of non-executive director.
Dr Simon Campbell joins the Board of Astex Technology
Cambridge, UK, March 13 2000.
2000 Astex Technology, a new UK Biotechnology Company specialising in high throughput X-ray crystallography, today announced the appointment of Dr Simon Campbell, FRS, to the post of non- executive director. Dr Campbell was previously Senior VP of Worldwide Discovery and Medicinals R&D Europe at Pfizer Central Research.
1999
New Cambridge-based biotech start-up
Cambridge, UK, December 2 1999.
Astex Technology Ltd, a new start-up biotechnology company has been formed in the Cambridge area following the efforts of some of the leading names in chemistry and crystallography at the University of Cambridge together with a senior level research scientist from GlaxoWellcome. Astex Technology Ltd obtained initial funding from Abingworth Management and Oxford Bioscience Partners both long-standing specialists in biotechnology venture investment.