Running The Drug Catalyst Gauntlet: What To Look For In Q2 2017

Among the many data read-outs due in 2017's second quarter, one in the neuroscience space – a Phase IIb study of Neurotrope Bioscience Inc.'s protein kinase C targeting bryostatin – will be closely scrutinized when released in April, not least as it follows a string of failures of beta-amyloid targeting therapies, and because good results would set the stage for a future pivotal trial and likely generate partnership interest from larger companies. (Also see "Another Nail In Amyloid Hypothesis Coffin? Merck Ends Pivotal BACE Inhibitor Study" - Scrip, 15 February, 2017.)

The Phase IIb randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study is assessing the safety, tolerability and efficacy of bryostatin in 148 patients with...