San Diego bipharma, Neurocrine Biosciences, and Japan’s Takeda have struck a strategic collaboration to develop and commercialise compounds in Takeda’s early-to-mid-stage psychiatry pipeline.
Specifically, Takeda granted an exclusive license to Neurocrine Biosciences for seven pipeline programs, including three clinical stage assets for schizophrenia, treatment-resistant depression and anhedonia.
Kevin Gorman, CEO of Neurocrine Biosciences, said: “With our deep understanding in the fields of psychiatry and neurology, we look forward to developing new treatments for schizophrenia, treatment-resistant depression and anhedonia as part of our diverse clinical development pipeline.
“This strategic partnership enhances our growing pipeline and strengthens our position as a leading neuroscience-focused biopharmaceutical company.”
Sarah Sheikh, Head of Neuroscience Therapeutic Area Unit at Takeda, added: “The strategic partnership with Neurocrine Biosciences allows us to continue to build on our leadership in psychiatry and deliver future medicines for these patients while advancing our clinical assets for rare neurological diseases, such as narcolepsy, developmental and epileptic encephalopathies and neurodegenerative conditions.”
As per the agreement, Neurocrine Biosciences will be responsible for developing and commercializing all pipeline compounds included in the collaboration. Takeda will receive a total of $120 million in upfront cash.
Additionally, Takeda will be entitled to development milestones of up to $495 million, commercial milestones of up to $1.4 billion and up to double-digit royalties on net sales.
