Janssen to Develop, Commercialize JAK Inhibitor For Immunological Diseases

Janssen Biotech, Inc. entered into a license agreement with Astellas Pharma Inc. for the worldwide development and commercialization, except in Japan, of ASP015K, an oral, small molecule Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor. ASP015K is currently in Phase 2b development as a once-daily oral treatment for moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis, following a successful Phase 2a study demonstrating its potential in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. In addition to an upfront payment, Janssen and Astellas have agreed to future milestone and royalty payments if certain development and commercialization milestones are achieved. Astellas will be responsible for completing the ongoing Phase 2b studies. Janssen will be responsible for all other development, clinical and regulatory filing activities in its territories. Astellas will continue development and commercialization of ASP015K in Japan.