GSK and Empirico ink US$745 million deal on experimental COPD drug
Global biopharma company GSK has entered a worldwide exclusive license agreement with US-based clinical-stage biotechnology company Empirico for EMP-012, an experimental small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy being tested for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The deal includes an US$85 million upfront payment and up to US$660 million in milestone payments, along with tiered royalties on global sales.
EMP-012, now in phase I trials, targets a novel inflammatory pathway and could benefit patients regardless of baseline inflammation type, smoking status or co-morbidities. The treatment is designed for patients with limited options, particularly those who do not qualify for biologics.
GSK said the agreement supports its goal of transforming COPD care through long-acting therapies that address the underlying drivers of disease. The company will take over global development and commercialization after the phase I study, while Empirico will complete the ongoing trial.
Empirico said the collaboration validates its genetics-driven approach to target discovery and siRNA therapeutics and will accelerate the advancement of EMP-012 as a potential precision treatment for COPD and other inflammatory respiratory diseases.
Category: Pharmaceuticals
