Medgenics takes option on pediatric onset IBD prods from Kyowa Hakko

US firm Medgenics (NYSE: MDGN) has entered into a collaboration with Japan’s Kyowa Hakko Kirin (TYO: 4151) for the development and commercialization of the latter's first-in-class anti-LIGHT monoclonal antibody.

The anti-LIGHT monoclonal antibody is a Phase II-ready biologic with available clinical supply. Medgenics plans to initiate a signal finding study testing the drug in severe pediatric onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in collaboration with Robert Baldassano, director of the Center for Pediatric IBD at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

"IBD is a distinct and severe genetic disease in children, with very limited treatment options available," said Dr Baldassano, adding: "I am pleased to see Medgenics and Kyowa Hakko Kirin come together to advance the development of this program for children with this severe, genetically driven disease."