Singapore: Takeda Pharmaceutical has entered into a partnership with Resolve Therapeutics to develop compounds for the treatment of lupus (also known as systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE) and other autoimmune diseases.

Resolve will conduct all development work under the collaboration until completion of the first RSLV-132 phase Ib/IIa trial-III in lupus patients. Takeda has the exclusive option to license the lead compound and all other compounds from the Resolve platform upon the completion of the phase Ib/IIa trial. Upon exercise of its option, Takeda would assume lead responsibility for worldwide development and commercialization of the Resolve products.

Under the terms of the agreement, Takeda will help fund continued development of RSLV-132 through an initial payment of $8 million to Resolve in fiscal 2012-13. Upon exercise of its option, Takeda would pay Resolve an option exercise fee, plus the potential for additional development milestones totaling $247 million. Furthermore, Resolve is eligible to receive royalties on product sales.

"This collaboration with Resolve is very exciting as its innovative pipeline of nuclease fusion proteins has the potential to provide a new approach to helping lupus patients" said Mr Tetsuyuki Maruyama, GM. pharmaceutical research division, Takeda.

"We are delighted to begin work with our Takeda colleagues," said Dr James Posada, CEO, Resolve. "We feel strongly that Takeda's expertise, commitment to inflammation, and considerable resources will give the Resolve compounds the best possible chance of success."