Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (SHA: 600276) announced a license agreement with US-based giant Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK). Under the terms, Merck gains exclusive global development, manufacturing, and commercialization rights to Hengrui’s HRS-5346, excluding the Greater China region.
Financial Terms
Merck will provide an upfront payment of USD 200 million and is committed to development, regulatory, and commercial milestone payments totaling up to USD 1.77 billion. The agreement also includes provisions for net sales-based royalties.
Drug Profile and Development
HRS-5346 is an investigational oral small molecule Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) inhibitor currently in Phase II clinical trials in China. Lp(a), a unique lipoprotein containing low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-like particles, is associated with promoting atherosclerosis, inflammation, and calcification. Targeted lipid-lowering therapies focusing on Lp(a) have emerged as significant breakthroughs in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.-Fineline Info & Tech
Leave a Reply