Wyeth ends collaboration with Curis

Cambridge biotechnology company Curis Inc. said today that drug giant Wyeth has decided to end a collaboration on a drug research program that began in 2004.

Curis added that it is now seeking a new partner to work on the project, which focuses on the development of small molecule and protein Hedgehog agonists, which offer promise in potential treatments for strokes and cardiovascular disease.

"Our speculation is that Wyeth has decided to re-prioritize," a Curis spokesman said of Wyeth's decision to conclude the collaboration.

Curis has repositioned itself since signing the agreement with Wyeth four years ago, he added; Curis is now focused on developing cancer treatments.

When Curis and Wyeth announced their agreement in 2004, Curis received a $3 million up-front payment and said the agreement could be worth more than $170 million if two experimental drugs were brought to market.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)