BRIEF—Shionogi inks deal with Hsiri Therapeutics

Japanese drug major Shionogi has entered into a license agreement with USA-based Hsiri Therapeutics, regarding a collaborative licensing, research and development program to discover and develop novel therapeutics for non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) diseases and tuberculosis (TB).

The candidate compounds discovered by Hsiri have a novel mechanism of action and are hence anticipated to be more effective than current therapies for mycobacterial infections. Shionogi's strength in small molecule drug discovery and development in the antibacterial area will support development of Hsiri's innovative therapeutics in this collaborative program.

Under the terms of this agreement, Shionogi will have exclusive right to develop, manufacture, and commercialize the compounds worldwide.

Hsiri will receive an undisclosed upfront license fee, potential development milestones, and royalty payments based on sales from Shionogi.

It is reported that the number of patients suffering from NTM diseases has been increasing especially in developed countries, in recent years.

There is a medical need to develop novel anti-NTM drugs because of long-term regimen and insufficient treatment outcome of current therapeutics.