In a move designed to strengthen its presence in the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) market, Roche has inked a $370 million deal to develop and commercialize T-5224, Toyama Chemical's Phase I RA drug. The companies hope the drug will be able to block the symptoms of RA and halt the destruction of joints and bones that result from the disease. Earlier this month, Roche said data from a second late-stage study of another rheumatoid arthritis drug, Actemra, delivered positive results that will clear the way to regulatory filings in Europe and the U.S.
"This novel oral compound complements Roche's developing portfolio of drug candidates in inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis. The agent T-5224 has the potential to inhibit a key trigger of rheumatoid arthritis and has already shown promising pharmacological efficacy and safety in early clinical studies," said Jean-Jacques Garaud, head of Roche Pharma Development. "Our new collaboration is good news for all patients with rheumatoid arthritis as well as for our two companies. We are looking forward to collaborating with our new colleagues in Japan to develop T-5224."
- see this release for more on the deal
Related Articles:
Roche sees positive late-stage data on Actemra. Report
Roche trumpets positive data on Actemra for RA. Report
Roche drug hits endpoint in late-stage RA trial. Report
New data on Actemra. Report