Boehringer Ingelheim, Vitae Collaborate For Development Of Beta-Secretase Inhibitors

Boehringer Ingelheim and Vitae have announced that they have entered into a worldwide collaboration to research and develop beta-secretase (BACE) inhibitors, for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

Under the terms of the agreement, Vitae will receive $42 million in upfront and near-term payments from Boehringer Ingelheim, consisting of upfront cash, an equity investment in Vitae, and research funding to support further discovery efforts. In addition, Vitae will be eligible to receive $200 million in pre-commercial milestone payments based on the achievement of clinical and regulatory goals, as well as further milestone payments based on potential additional compounds and/or other approved indications. Vitae will receive commercial performance payments and royalties from Boehringer Ingelheim on all potential future product sales.

The companies will work jointly to identify and advance candidates for clinical development. Thereafter, Boehringer Ingelheim will lead development and commercialization of all products for Alzheimer’s disease to capitalize on its global marketing and sales expertise. Vitae will have the right to develop products independently for certain other indications.