Angelini Pharma and JCR Pharmaceuticals on Thursday said they entered into an exclusive global agreement that applies the latter's blood-brain barrier penetrating technology J-Brain Cargo to develop novel biologic therapies for epilepsy. "Through this strategic collaboration…we will combine our respective strengths to explore the use of biologics in this area and accelerate critically needed treatment options," commented Angelini Pharma CEO Jacopo Andreose. Under the agreed terms, JCR will be reimbursed for research expenses and receive an upfront payment. It is also eligible for additional payments of up to $505.5 million if certain development and commercial targets are achieved, as well as tiered royalties on post-approval net sales.
According to the companies, JCR's J-Brain Cargo technology allows the delivery of biotherapeutics into the central nervous system via receptor-mediated transcytosis. Following the preclinical development phase, Angelini Pharma will have an exclusive option to advance therapeutic candidates identified as part of the collaboration into clinical development and global commercialisation outside of Japan. JCR retains the right to commercialise in Japan.