Janssen Biotech has signed a license agreement with Astellas Pharma for the worldwide development and commercialization of ASP015K, except in Japan.
Astellas will continue development and commercialization of ASP015K in Japan.
ASP015K, an oral, small molecule Janus Kinase inhibitor, is at present in Phase 2b development as a once-daily oral treatment for moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis.
A Phase 2a study demonstrated ASP015K's potential in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.
Janssen Research and Development immunology global therapeutic area head Susan Dillon said, "We are committed to expanding the portfolio of new treatments for patients with serious immune-mediated diseases and are excited to add Astellas' ASP015K to our pipeline."
Pursuant to the agreement, Janssen wins exclusive rights to develop and commercialize ASP015K as an oral treatment for immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.
Astellas will earn an upfront payment besides future milestone and royalty payments upon the development and commercialization of the product.
Astellas will be responsible for completing the ongoing Phase 2b studies while Janssen will be responsible for all other development, clinical and regulatory filing activities in its territories.