By Fineline Cube 
Shanghai-based Xgene Pharmaceutical Inc. has entered into a licensing agreement withNeuroGen Pharma, a neurology care specialist established in late 2024 following the acquisition of UCB’s mature neurology and allergy business in China by CBC Group and Mubadala Investment Company. Under the agreement, NeuroGen secures exclusive rights for the development, registration, production, and commercialization of Xgene’s novel non-opioid analgesic, XG005, in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. Xgene retains global rights outside these territories.
Financial Terms
Xgene will receive an undisclosed upfront payment, along with development and sales milestone payments, and tiered royalties on net sales. This strategic partnership leverages NeuroGen’s expertise in neurology and Xgene’s innovative drug development capabilities.
XG005: Dual Analgesic Mechanism
XG005 demonstrates dual analgesic mechanisms through cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition and peripheral α2δ calcium channel modulation. It is being developed for inflammatory and neuropathic pain indications. Positive results have been observed in the U.S. Phase II/III bunionectomy study and China Phase IIb osteoarthritis trial. An additional Phase III trial for abdominal surgery pain is planned in the U.S. in 2025, with a New Drug Application (NDA) submission to follow.-Fineline Info & Tech