| BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. engages in the design, optimization, and development of small-molecule drugs that treat cancer, cardiovascular, and autoimmune diseases, as well as viral infections. The company focuses on building potent, selective inhibitors of enzymes associated with targeted diseases. BioCryst Pharmaceuticals integrates the disciplines of biology, crystallography, medicinal chemistry, and computer modeling to use structure-based drug design to discover and develop small molecule pharmaceuticals. Its lead product candidate, Fodosine, is a transition-state analog inhibitor of the target enzyme purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP). The drug is in a Phase IIa trial for patients with T-cell leukemia and in a Phase I trial with an oral formulation in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The companys pipeline products include PNP Inhibitor (BCX-4208), Hepatitis C Polymerase Inhibitors, and Tissue Factor/Factor VIIa Inhibitors. PNP Inhibitor (BCX-4208), a phase I clinical trial product, is intended for the treatment of T-cell mediated autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis. Hepatitis C Polymerase Inhibitor, a product under lead optimization stage, is intended for the treatment of viral infections. Tissue Factor/Factor VIIa, a product under lead optimization stage, is intended for the treatment of acute coronary syndromes and complications associated with cardiovascular procedures. The company has strategic agreement with Sunol Molecular Corp. to conduct research and supply of protein targets for drug design for its cardiovascular program. BioCryst Pharmaceuticals was co-founded in 1986 by Charles E. Bugg, John A. Montgomery, and William M. Spencer, III. The company is headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama. |
