Hansoh Pharma has granted MSD (the tradename of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA) an exclusive global license for HS-10535, its investigational oral small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist. This collaboration represents a significant step in advancing therapies for cardiometabolic diseases.
Under the terms of the agreement, Hansoh Pharma will receive an upfront payment of $112 million. Additionally, the company is eligible for up to $1.9 billion in milestone payments, contingent upon the successful development, regulatory approval, and commercialization of HS-10535. Hansoh Pharma will also earn royalties on the product’s global sales. In China, Hansoh retains the option to co-promote or independently commercialize the drug under specific conditions.
This partnership underscores Hansoh Pharma’s commitment to innovation in metabolic diseases. “We are pleased to announce the in-license of our oral GLP-1 by MSD, a company with established leadership in cardiometabolic diseases,” said Ms. Eliza Sun, Executive Director of the Board at Hansoh Pharma. “Hansoh Pharma is becoming an emerging leader in metabolic diseases, and we see MSD’s expertise and capabilities as key to accelerating the development of this promising asset for patients worldwide.”
Dr. Dean Y. Li, president of MSD Research Laboratories, also highlighted the potential impact of the agreement. “We continue to leverage science-driven business development to augment and complement our robust pipeline,” he stated. “Through this agreement, we aim to build on our experience targeting incretin biology to evaluate HS-10535 and its potential to provide additional cardiometabolic benefits beyond weight reduction.”
The Role of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of drugs that have gained significant attention for their ability to address multiple facets of metabolic diseases, including diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions. By mimicking the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1, these drugs enhance insulin secretion, reduce appetite, and improve glycemic control. HS-10535, as a small molecule candidate, offers the convenience of oral administration, which could expand accessibility and adherence compared to injectable alternatives.
Strategic Implications
This agreement positions both Hansoh Pharma and MSD to leverage their respective strengths in the development of innovative therapies. For Hansoh, the partnership aligns with its goal of establishing leadership in metabolic diseases, building on its track record of innovation and commercialization in China and beyond. For MSD, the addition of HS-10535 complements its existing portfolio and pipeline in cardiometabolic health, reinforcing its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs in this space.
Financial and Development Highlights
- Upfront Payment: Hansoh Pharma receives $112 million immediately as part of the agreement.
- Milestone Payments: Hansoh stands to gain up to $1.9 billion based on the successful achievement of developmental, regulatory, and commercial milestones.
- Royalties: Hansoh will earn royalties on global sales of HS-10535, further aligning incentives for the drug’s success.
- China Commercial Rights: Hansoh retains the option to co-promote or solely commercialize the drug in China, subject to predefined conditions, highlighting the strategic importance of the Chinese market.
