New Dual-Action Antimalarial Candidate MK7602 Well Tolerated in Early Human Studies

Findings from two early clinical studies indicate that a new dual-action antimalarial drug candidate is well tolerated in human subjects. The first-in-class clinical candidate, identified as MK7602, is currently under development by WEHI and the global biopharmaceutical company MSD (Merck & Co., Inc.).

Findings from two early clinical studies indicate that a new dual-action antimalarial drug candidate is well tolerated in human subjects.

Phase 1 trials, which were led by MSD, determined that the compound reached blood concentration levels anticipated to achieve its intended antimalarial effect. This outcome represents a key milestone, supporting the advancement of MK7602 to later-stage clinical evaluation.

MK-7602 originated from a medicinal chemistry program conducted by MSD and WEHI. This program was initiated based on compounds first identified by the National Drug Discovery Centre (NDDC) at WEHI through its advanced screening technologies.