Astellas and Cytokinetics collaborate on new frontier of muscle biology

In a second deal announced this month by US biotech firm, Cytokinetics (Nasdaq: CYTK) has entered into a collaboration worth a potential $490 million with Japanese drug major Astellas Pharma (TYO: 4503) focused on the research, development and commercialization of skeletal muscle activators.

The primary objective of the accord is to advance novel therapies for diseases and medical conditions associated with muscle weakness. The companies will jointly conduct research in the area of skeletal muscle activation.

Cytokinetics will receive over $40 million in the form of an upfront payment and reimbursement of sponsored research and development activities during the initial two years of the collaboration. In addition, Cytokinetics is eligible for over $450 million in pre-commercialization and commercialization milestones plus royalties.