Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche (SWX: ROG, OTCMKTS: RHHBY) announced a strategic exclusive collaboration and licensing agreement with Denmark-based Zealand Pharma (CPH: ZEAL). The partnership aims to develop and commercialize petrelintide, Zealand Pharma’s amylin analog, both as a standalone therapy and in a fixed-dose combination with Roche’s lead incretin asset CT-388.
Drug Profiles and Development Potential
Petrelintide, a long-acting amylin analog administered via once-weekly subcutaneous injection, is currently in Phase II clinical study. Existing data suggest it has the potential to become a best-in-class amylin monotherapy with improved tolerability compared to existing weight management treatments. CT-388, Roche’s biased dual GLP-1/GIP receptor modulator, is expected to provide best-in-class efficacy when combined with petrelintide, along with enhanced tolerability.
Financial Terms of the Agreement
Under the terms of the agreement, Zealand Pharma will receive an upfront payment of USD 1.65 billion in cash. The company is also eligible for up to USD 1.2 billion in development milestone payments and USD 2.4 billion in sales milestone payments, totaling up to USD 5.3 billion. Additionally, Zealand Pharma will receive tiered double-digit royalties, reaching high teens percentage on net sales outside the U.S. and Europe. Profits and losses will be shared on a 50/50 basis in the U.S. and Europe.
Market Implications
This collaboration underscores Roche’s commitment to expanding its portfolio in metabolic diseases and weight management. By combining petrelintide with CT-388, the companies aim to create a novel therapeutic option with superior efficacy and tolerability, potentially reshaping the treatment landscape for these conditions.-Fineline Info & Tech
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