Galapagos is applying its functional screening program to the discovery of novel drugable targets in osteoporosis.
We have developed assays in primary human mesenchymal progenitor cells that measure osteoblast differentiation and mineralisation. SilenceSelect and FLeXSelect were screened in this assay to identify drugable targets that promote osteoblast formation and bone deposition. These hits have then been validated through a selection of secondary validation assays, in order to select a final set of high value novel drugable osteoporosis targets for compound screening.

In December 2007 Galapagos entered into a global collaboration agreement with Eli Lilly and Company to develop potential new medicines for the treatment of osteoporosis. The agreement provides Lilly access to 12 of Galapagos’ proprietary osteoporosis targets and drug discovery programs to discover candidate drugs. Galapagos is responsible for the development of drug candidates potentially through to Phase IIa clinical Proof of Concept. Under the terms of the agreement, Lilly will have the exclusive option to further develop and commercialize these candidates on a worldwide basis. Galapagos will have the right to further develop and commercialize compounds for which Lilly does not exercise its option. Galapagos received a €3 million upfront payment from Lilly. Contingent on achieving certain milestones, Galapagos is eligible for each target program to receive up to €88 million in discovery, development and regulatory milestones. Should a product be commercialized, Galapagos could receive up to €130 million of one-time sales milestones and up to double-digit royalties on worldwide sales of alliance products. For more information, visit the OP alliance page.