Huadong Medicine Co., Ltd (SHE: 000963) announced an agreement with MC2 Therapeutics Ltd. (a wholly‑owned subsidiary of MC2 Therapeutics A/S) to obtain exclusive commercialization rights in Greater China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan) for Biomee#1 and Biomee#2 dermatological creams, expanding its PAD Technology‑based dermatology portfolio following the 2023 Wynzora acquisition.
Transaction Overview
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Licensor | MC2 Therapeutics Ltd. (subsidiary of MC2 Therapeutics A/S) |
| Licensee | Huadong Medicine Co., Ltd (000963.SZ) |
| Products | Biomee#1 and Biomee#2 creams |
| Territory | Greater China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan) |
| Rights | Exclusive commercialization |
| Technology | PAD (Patient‑Adaptive Delivery) Technology |
| Indications | Daily skincare for dry skin and discomfort; Phase II POC trials for CKD‑associated pruritus (CKD‑aP) and vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) |
Product Profile: Biomee Skincare Line
Biomee#1 & Biomee#2 utilize MC2’s PAD Technology to provide daily skin care and comfort for individuals prone to dry skin and irritation. Over‑the‑counter formulations offer excellent sensory comfort and effective soothing of skin irritation, based on overseas trials.
Clinical Development:
- Phase II POC trials underway for CKD‑associated pruritus and vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS)
- Mechanism: PAD Technology enhances skin barrier restoration and anti‑inflammatory delivery
- Clinical Differentiation: Addresses unmet need in chronic kidney disease patients suffering from intractable pruritus
Technology Platform: PAD Technology
Patient‑Adaptive Delivery (PAD) System:
- Mechanism: Encapsulation technology that adapts to skin pH and moisture levels, providing sustained release of active ingredients
- Proven Platform: Same technology utilized in Wynzora Cream (psoriasis therapy) licensed to Huadong Medicine in August 2023
- Advantages: Enhanced penetration, reduced irritation, improved patient compliance
Portfolio Synergy: Huadong Medicine now holds two PAD‑based dermatology assets, creating platform expertise for future in‑licensing.
Market Opportunity
Dermatology & Chronic Pruritus Market:
- CKD‑aP Prevalence: 30‑40% of 3.5 million Chinese dialysis patients suffer from moderate‑to‑severe pruritus
- VLS Prevalence: 1‑2% of adult women; 500,000‑1 million patients in China
- Dry Skin Market: ¥45 billion (US$6.3 B) OTC skincare market, growing at 12% CAGR
Revenue Projections:
- 2026‑2027: ¥200‑300 million (OTC Biomee sales)
- 2028‑2029: ¥800 million‑1.2 billion (if CKD‑aP/VLS indications approved)
- Peak Sales: ¥1.5 billion (US$210 M) by 2030 across three indications
Pricing: OTC Biomee expected at ¥150‑250 per tube; prescription CKD‑aP/VLS formulation at ¥800‑1,200 per month.
Financial Terms & Strategic Rationale
Deal Structure: Undisclosed upfront/milestone terms typical for Phase II OTC‑to‑Rx pipeline assets (estimated USD 15‑25 million upfront + milestones).
Strategic Logic:
- Portfolio Expansion: Builds on 2023 Wynzora deal, solidifying Huadong’s dermatology leadership
- Platform Leverage: PAD Technology expertise reduces development risk for future assets
- Commercial Infrastructure: Huadong’s 5,000‑person sales force covers 3,000+ hospitals and 40,000+ pharmacies
Market Position: Huadong aims to become #2 dermatology player in China by 2028, behind J&J but ahead of LEO Pharma.
Forward‑Looking Statements
This brief contains forward‑looking statements regarding Biomee’s commercial launch timeline, clinical trial outcomes, market penetration, and revenue projections. Actual results may differ materially due to regulatory approvals, competitive responses, and market adoption rates.-Fineline Info & Tech
