GlaxoSmithKline and MorphoSys to ally on new RA therapy

GlaxoSmithKline has entered into a global agreement with MorphoSys on the development and commercialisation of the anti-inflammatory drug MOR 103.

The proprietary HuCAL-derived antibody is currently in phase I/II testing as a treatment for mild to moderate rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and has shown significant potential in early preclinical and clinical studies, while it is also being assessed as a therapy for multiple sclerosis.

Under the terms of the agreement, GlaxoSmithKline will assume responsibility for all further development of MOR103, with MorphoSys to receive an immediate upfront payment of 22.5 million euros (19.1 million pounds).

The firm is also eligible to receive additional payments from GlaxoSmithKline of up to 423 million euros, pending the achievement of certain developmental, regulatory, commercial and sales-based milestones.

Dr Simon Moroney, chief executive officer of MorphoSys, said: "Our goal was to secure an agreement with a company having the commitment and expertise to turn MOR103 into a successful drug and in GlaxoSmithKline we have clearly found such a partner."

Earlier this week, GlaxoSmithKline announced positive data from a new study of its drug Votrient, showing how the therapy can be used to treat advanced epithelial ovarian cancer.