Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) has announced an extension of its collaboration with KeyBioscience AG, a subsidiary of Danish biotech Nordic Bioscience, to advance the development of Dual Amylin Calcitonin Receptor Agonists (DACRA). This new class of potential treatments targets obesity and related disorders, marking a significant step in the journey to combat metabolic conditions.
Under the expanded agreement, Lilly will secure worldwide rights to develop and commercialize DACRA molecules, including a new molecule designed to enter Phase II studies in patients with obesity and osteoarthritis (OA) later this year. KeyBioscience will be at the helm of this study, which is set to enroll 600 participants with dual primary endpoints focused on body weight and the alleviation of OA pain.
The terms of the extended agreement outline an initial payment to KeyBioscience, with potential downstream considerations reaching up to USD 1.4 billion, contingent upon the achievement of specific development, regulatory, and commercial milestones. Additionally, KeyBioscience stands to receive tiered royalties on net sales, ranging from mid-single digits to low double digits.
This strategic move by Lilly underscores the pharmaceutical giant’s commitment to innovating in the realm of metabolic disorder treatments. The DACRA platform’s potential to improve insulin sensitivity, suppress food intake, and enhance blood glucose control positions it as a promising avenue for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity.- Flcube.com
