Abbott, Galapagos In Autoimmune Pact

Abbott and Galapagos have entered into a global collaboration to develop and commercialize an oral, next-generation JAK1 inhibitor for the potential treatment of multiple autoimmune diseases. GLPG0634 is a highly selective JAK1 inhibitor in Phase II development for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune diseases. Results from a recent Phase IIa study of GLPG0634 demonstrated positive efficacy measures in RA. An additional Phase IIa dose-range finding study is expected to begin soon.

Abbott will make an initial upfront payment of $150 million for rights related to the global collaboration. Upon successful completion of the RA Phase II studies, Abbott will license the program for a one-time fee of $200 million. Abbott will assume responsibility for Phase III development and global manufacturing. Pending certain developmental, regulatory, commercial and sales milestones, Galapagos is eligible to receive additional milestone payments totaling $1.0 billion, in addition to royalties on sales. Galapagos retains co-promotion rights in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

“This collaboration with Abbott, the global leader in autoimmune diseases, is a great recognition of the value of GLPG0634. We view Abbott to be the best partner possible to deliver a complete clinical program and a powerful market introduction. We are excited to continue the Phase II trials and expect to deliver to Abbott a complete Phase II package in 2014,” said Onno van de Stolpe, chief executive officer, Galapagos.