Benzinga | May 17, 2021 10:13AM EDT

Aeterna Zentaris Starts Animal Studies For Macimorelin For Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

* Aeterna Zentaris Inc (NASDAQ: AEZS) has commenced the previously announced preclinical program to qualify macimorelin for clinical development as a potential treatment option for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS; Lou Gehrig's disease).

* The preclinical development program is part of the recently executed Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) with The University of Queensland.

* The University researchers will conduct preclinical studies in disease-related in-vitro and in-vivo models to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of macimorelin on disease progression and ALS-specific pathology.

* In the event of positive preclinical results, the Company has the exclusive right to acquire a license from The University on the therapeutic use of macimorelin to treat ALS.

* Aeterna Zentaris' lead product, macimorelin, is the only FDA-approved oral drug indicated for diagnosing adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD) and is currently marketed in the U.S. under the tradename Macrilen by Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE: NVO).

* Price Action: AEZS shares are trading 1.79% lower at $0.85 on the last check Monday.