mGluR4 is a glutamate receptor, member of the G-Protein Coupled Receptor (GPCR) family and is believed to be a potential therapeutic target for Parkinson’s disease.
Allosteric modulation of mGluR4 receptors is thought to exert regulatory activity on glutamate-mediated neurotransmission.
Domain Therapeutics will contribute optimized compounds that have been developed from its proprietary chemical series.
Under the terms of the agreement, Domain Therapeutics will receive €2m in upfront payment and research funding, and is eligible for up to €132m in milestones for the first two products, as well as undisclosed royalties.
Domain Therapeutics CEO Pascal Neuville said the agreement is a validation of Domain Therapeutics’ business model of addressing difficult GPCRs and partnering compounds, with a significant deal, at an early stage of development.
Merck Serono EVP for Global Research and Development Bernhard Kirschbaum said the partnership with Domain Therapeutics reflects their long-term commitment to develop new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.