Pennsylvania-based pharma company Marinus Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: MRNS) has entered into a collaboration and supply agreement with China-based Tenacia Biotechnology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. Under the agreement, Tenacia will receive exclusive development and commercialization rights to certain formulations of Marinus’s ganaxolone in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. The deal covers the current oral and intravenous (IV) formulations of the drug and includes an option for first negotiation on any future next-generation formulation or prodrug.
Deal Terms
Marinus will receive USD 10 million upfront, with the potential for up to USD 256 million in regulatory, development, and sales-based milestones. Tenacia will also pay tiered low double-digit royalties on future net sales. This strategic partnership aims to leverage Tenacia’s presence in the Greater China region to advance the development and commercialization of ganaxolone.
Ganaxolone Profile
Ganaxolone is a neuroactive steroid GABAA receptor modulator that acts on a well-characterized target in the brain known to have anti-seizure effects. Tenacia will focus its development efforts in China on CDKL5 deficiency disorder, tuberous sclerosis complex, and status epilepticus. The collaboration will also include joint work with Marinus to develop a next-generation ganaxolone formulation, further enhancing the therapeutic potential of the drug.
Future Implications
This partnership between Marinus Pharmaceuticals and Tenacia Biotechnology underscores the commitment to advancing treatments for rare and complex neurological disorders. By combining their expertise, the companies aim to bring innovative solutions to patients in need, particularly in the Greater China region.-Fineline Info & Tech
