Ra, Merck in cyclic peptide deal

Ra Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Cambridge, Mass.) partnered with Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE:MRK) to develop modified cyclic peptides that target multiple undisclosed protein targets selected by Merck for undisclosed indications. Ra is eligible for up to $200 million in total in an undisclosed upfront payment, research funding and undisclosed milestones. Ra said its cyclic peptides, called cyclomimetics, have the potential to address difficult targets, including protein-protein interactions. The partners declined to disclose details.

This is Ra's first disclosed deal. The company's backers include New Enterprise Associates; Amgen Ventures; Morgenthaler Ventures; and Novartis Venture Funds. ...