Healios, Dainippon in iPSC deal for ophthalmic diseases
Healios K.K. (Tokyo, Japan) partnered with Dainippon Sumitomo Pharma Co. Ltd. (Tokyo:4506) to jointly develop in Japan induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells to treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other ophthalmic diseases. The companies will form a joint development committee, and Dainippon will provide up to Y5.2 billion ($51 million) for development. The companies plan to launch a 50/50 JV to manufacture and commercialize products developed under the deal.
Additionally, Healios (formerly Retina Institute Japan K.K.) granted Dainippon exclusive, Japanese and non-exclusive, ex-Japanese rights to Healios' patents and know-how covering retinal pigment epithelial cells. Healios will receive Y500 million ($4.9 million) up front and is eligible for up to Y1.1 billion ($10.8 million) in milestones. ...