Agreement spans two years and may be expanded.
Pfizer has gained access to Novocell’s pancreatic progenitor cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) for diabetes research.
Under terms of this two-year agreement, Novocell will receive payments relating to Pfizer’s sale of any exclusive therapeutic discovered as a result of the collaboration. Pfizer has the option to extend the period of this collaboration.
Earlier this year, Novocell reports that it demonstrated that hES-derived pancreatic progenitors develop into functioning ductal, acinar, and endocrine cells in vivo. These endocrine cells are capable of producing insulin in response to glucose as well as other pancreatic endocrine hormones in vivo.
