GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Prosensa, the Dutch-based biopharmaceutical company focusing on RNA modulating therapeutics, have entered into an exclusive worldwide collaboration for the development and commercialisation of RNA based therapeutics for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). The alliance was established under GSK’s Centre of Excellence for External Drug Discovery (CEEDD).
Under the terms of the agreement, GSK will obtain an exclusive worldwide license to develop and commercialise Prosensa’s lead compound, PRO051, as a potential treatment for DMD. PRO051, reportedly, the first molecule with this mechanism of action, acts by skipping exon 51 of the dystrophin gene. GSK’s Neurosciences Medicines Development Centre will continue to progress the further development of PRO051 in collaboration with Prosensa. GSK will fund all costs associated with the further clinical development of PRO051. In addition, GSK has exclusive options to license three more RNA-based compounds targeting additional DMD exons. In these cases, GSK’s option rights will be triggered by successful study completion.
The financial terms include a GBP £16m upfront payment. Furthermore, Prosensa is eligible to receive up to £412m in milestones payments if all four compounds are successfully developed and is also entitled to double-digit royalties on product sales. Prosensa will retain commercial participatory rights, and has an option to expand its commercial rights in certain European countries on products arising under the collaboration.
Hans Schikan, CEO of Prosensa said: “We are delighted by GSK’s commitment to develop and commercialise our promising lead compound, PRO051. This alliance will not only speed-up the further development of PRO051, but will also accelerate the progress of our complementary DMD therapeutics, allowing us to reach a broader patient population. Our joint commitment to serve Duchenne patients provides a solid basis to achieve our goal to improve the lives of these boys and their families.”