Amarin Corporation has bought Israel-based Ester Neurosciences, and R&D operation focused on messenger RNA (mRNA) silencing technology which targets the cholinergic pathway. Ester is also has a Phase II compound for myasthenia gravis and a preclinical program in neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases. The deal could be worth up to $32 million; Amarin is initially paying Ester $15 million.

"This acquisition allows Amarin to gain access to a unique mRNA platform technology based on breakthrough discoveries in cholinergic neuromodulation. The validation of the platform via the promising clinical data from a Phase II study in myasthenia gravis adds substantial value to Amarin's neuroscience portfolio," noted Amarin CEO Rick Stewart.

- see this release for more on the deal

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