Ligand licenses DARA Program to Retrophin

USA-based Ligand Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: LGND) has entered into an agreement in which it has licensed rights to DARA (a Dual Acting Receptor Antagonist of Angiotensin and Endothelin receptors) to privately-held biotech firm Retrophin.

Under the terms of the accord, Ligand will get a net upfront payment of $1 million, and may receive, net of amounts owed to third parties, over $75 million in milestone payments based on clinical and regulatory progress as well as 9% in royalties on potential future worldwide sales by Retrophin.

“DARA has the promise to be a significant medicine, and we are excited to partner with Retrophin to advance the development of the program and bring it closer to patients in need,” said John Higgins, president and chief executive of Ligand, adding: “This is an attractive deal for Ligand and our shareholders. We have partnered DARA with a team that has great credentials, is highly motivated to advance the program and has a compelling development plan. This is another valuable asset in our late-stage portfolio.”