HAMBURG, Germany - Soon after in-licensing a Phase II-ready drug to treat congestive heart failure, Medigene AG has added a drug to its portfolio of anti-HPV treatments. Medigene acquired an exclusive license for the development and commercialization of PolyphenoneE ointment from Epitome Pharmaceuticals Ltd., of Canada.

"The drug is a highly effective topical treatment for genital warts, which are caused by certain varieties of human papilloma virus," Peter Heinrich, CEO of Medigene, told BioWorld International. PolyphenoneE inhibits the binding of the human papilloma virus (HPV) to its cellular receptors.

The drug already is in Phase II trials in the U.S. and Canada. "It shows very encouraging results, and it will complement our two vaccines against cervical cancer caused by other HPV variants," Heinrich said. "So it will help us to strengthen our position in the huge HPV market." Clinical trials of Medigene's therapeutic vaccine against HPV-induced cervical cancer and precancerous lesions will start early next year.

Heinrich said he wanted to complement Martinsried-based Medigene's portfolio by acquiring more products and perhaps a matching company. "Shopping conditions in the U.S. are excellent in the moment, and we have still gaps to fill," he said.

Starting in 2003, Medigene aims to bring to the market one product per year. An initial public offering also is in the plans. "Time is ripe for an IPO," Heinrich said, "but we have not yet decided where we are going to be listed." n