Abstract derivative that acts as a stem cell mobiliser by blocking the CXCR4 chemokine receptor. Plerixafor was synthesised by Johnson Matthey (AnorMED) in collaboration with the Rega Institute of Leuven, Belgium. Plerixafor is in phase III clinical trials in stem cell transplantation among cancer patients. Plerixafor blocks CXCR4, which triggers the rapid movement of stem cells out of the bone marrow and into circulating blood. These cells can then be collected and used in stem cell transplant procedures. Plerixafor had been available for partnering in Europe. However, decisions concerning partnering arrangements were deferred by AnorMED until top-line clinical data became available (expected in 2007). In November 2006, Genzyme Corporation completed its acquisition of AnorMED. Genzyme intends to commercialise plerixafor in> 50 countries throughout the world using its existing transplant business.[1] Evotec OAI was selected by AnorMED to support it in the chemical development of plerixafor. Evotec OAI will use EVOdevelop™, its integrated chemical and pharmaceutical development platform, to complete the full validation of the process to plerixafor, including process research and development, cGMP manufacturing and analytical work. Evotec OAI will also be responsible for producing the relevant Chemical Manufacturing Control (CMC) documentation for regulatory filings.[2]

Top line results from the phase III studies are expected in the second quarter of 2007 and, assuming these are successful, the marketing submissions are planned for the US in 2007 (launch in 2008), and for Canada and Europe in 2008.[3, 4] Plerixafor has orphan drug status for stem cell transplantation in cancer patients in the US and the EU.[5, 6]