SCYNEXIS of Research Triangle Park and the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative in Switzerland will jointly research and development medication to treat Human African Trypanosomiasis (also known as sleeping sickness), one of the most devastating diseases in sub-Saharan Africa.
A fatal disease if not treated, human African trypanosomiasis threatens more than 50 million people in 36 countries. Currently, few drugs exist for the treatment of either Stage 1 or Stage 2 Human African Trypanosomiasis, and severe toxic side effects are a common problem.
"We look forward to a successful collaboration in the field of sleeping sickness," said Yves Ribeill, SCYNEXIS president and chief executive officer.
"This agreement marks our efforts to strengthen and to broaden our commitment by applying SCYNEXIS' advanced technology and proven record of success in drug discovery and development to work on neglected diseases and, thus, to contribute to improved worldwide health."