CCR1 - PS031291

CCR1 - Rheumatoid Arthritis & Multiple Sclerosis

Need: Chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs can result in significant toxicity. Newer TNFa modulating biologics are very expensive and present complex issues with respect to administration and monitoring of patients.

Potential: In 2004, the global market for rheumatoid arthritis was valued at over $4 billion. As the population ages, the number of patients with rheumatoid arthritis will climb at an increasing rate. In addition, about 400,000 Americans and an estimated 2.4 million people worldwide suffer from multiple sclerosis, a debilitating disease with limited treatment options.

Therapeutic Target: CCR1 is a member of the chemokine receptor family and is involved in the trafficking of T-cells and monocytes to specific sites of inflammation, such as the myelin sheath and the arthritic synovium. The chemokine receptors link extracellular signals to intracellular processes that are central to the inflammatory response. Research has demonstrated a role for CCR1 in modulating multiple inflammatory disease states. Inhibition of its activity could offer potential new treatment options with reduced side effects.

Program Status: Pharmacopeia’s compounds have been shown in preclinical studies to be potent at both binding to CCR1 and at antagonizing CCR1 mediated and chemotaxis. Additionally, compounds with good pharmacokinetic properties have been identified. In December 2007, Pharmacopeia identified a preclinical development compound.