Alumis and Kaken Pharma ink deal for ESK-001 in dermatology in Japan

25 March 2025

California-based clinical stage biotech Alumis (Nasdaq: ALMS) today announced a collaboration and licensing agreement with Japan’s Kaken Pharmaceutical (TYO: 4521) to develop, manufacture and commercialize ESK-001, a highly selective, next-generation oral tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor, for dermatology indications in Japan, with the option to expand the license to include rheumatological and gastrointestinal diseases.

The news sent Alumis’ shares up 11.5% to $4.21.

As a result, Alumis will receive $40 million in upfront and near-term co-development payments in 2025 to 2026, with the potential to earn up to around $140 million in additional payments based on the achievement of milestones, and field option payments.

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