Dendright, J&J deal
Dendright partnered with Johnson & Johnson's Janssen Biotech Inc. subsidiary to develop and commercialize Dendright's RA-Curcusome program, which is in preclinical testing to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Dendright said the ability of dendritic cells to induce T cell activation or tolerance can be controlled by the manipulation of NF-kappa B (NF-kB) and the protein v-rel reticuloendotheliosis viral oncogene homolog B (RELB). Dendright's RA-Curcusome is a liposome product to treat RA that encapsulates an inhibitor of NF-kB and an antigen to silence T cells in an antigen-specific manner. Dendright will receive undisclosed funding and is responsible for development of RA-Curcusome and companion biomarkers through Phase I testing, at which point Janssen has the option to license the RA-Curcusome program and the corresponding companion biomarkers. If Janssen exercises the option, Dendright will receive an option payment and will be eligible for milestones and tiered royalties. Dendright said its Curcusome technology can be used to develop therapies for other diseases not included in this deal, such as celiac disease, multiple sclerosis and diabetes. The partners declined to disclose financial terms. ...