Almirall and Eloxx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., announced today that they have partnered to exclusively license ZKN-013, in what they call a "potential game-changer" for the treatment of rare dermatological disorders.

The agreement grants Almirall global rights to develop and market ZKN-013, a phase I-ready oral therapy designed to combat nonsense mutations underlying diseases like recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB), Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa (JEB), and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).ZKN-013 represents a novel approach to targeting nonsense mutations, which prematurely terminate protein production, leaving affected individuals with nonfunctional proteins. By enabling cells to override these mutations and produce functional proteins, ZKN-013 holds promise for addressing the root cause of these debilitating conditions.

"We are thrilled about partnering with Almirall to advance the development and distribution of ZKN-013," Sumit Aggarwal, President and Chief Executive Officer of Eloxx Pharmaceuticals, said in a press release. "We believe this molecule has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for individuals grappling with these challenging diseases."

ZKN-013 will enter phase I clinical trials in the near future, according to the manufacturer. Under the terms of the agreement, Eloxx receives an upfront payment of $3 million with potential milestone payments totaling up to $470 million (contingent upon development progress, regulatory approvals, and sales achievements). Eloxx stands to receive tiered royalties based on future global sales of ZKN-013.

Source: Almirall press release. March 13, 2024.