Durham-based drug development firm Chimerix and the British animal health firm Merial Limited have signed an agreement under which Merial will screen a Chimerix chemical library for animal health drug leads.
The agreement gives Merial an option to negotiate a license with Chimerix for leads identified for possible animal health use.
"Collaborating with Merial, a known leader in animal health, will allow us to capitalize on active leads obtained through our chemical library for animal health indications that otherwise may not be developed," stated George Painter, president and chief executive officer of Chimerix. "Our company is excited about the possibility of contributing to the development of a medication that will positively impact the health and well-being of animals."