In August 2004, MIGENIX licensed the North American and European rights for MX-226 (omiganan 1% aqueous gel) for the prevention of wound, burn, and device-related infections to Cadence Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Initial development of MX-226 is focused on the prevention of central venous catheter (CVC) related infections, particularly amongst hospitalized and hemodialysis patients.

In the U.S., it is estimated that there are 50 million CVC days amongst hospitalized patients and 30 million CVC days amongst hemodialysis patients. Over 350,000 U.S. patients will develop blood stream infections due to infected catheters, and over 75,000 will die. The U.S. market for prevention of catheter-related infections is estimated to be over $500 million.

MX-226 is a first-in-class topical antimicrobial. Its novel mechanism of action non-specifically interferes with the cell membrane, making it both bactericidal and fungicidal. Importantly, the compound has not induced any significant resistance after expansive resistance testing. Additionally, the product is formulated as a clear gel in a convenient single unit of use container.

In a completed Phase III study, MX-226 demonstrated a 49% reduction in local catheter site infections in 1,400 patients (p=0.004). In addition, it demonstrated a 21% reduction in catheter colonization (p=0.002). MX-226 has been granted Fast Track status, and Cadence is currently preparing to initiate a confirmatory Phase III study of MX-226 for the prevention of local catheter site infections.