AbbVie and Gubra have announced a license agreement to develop an amylin analog, GUB014295, for obesity treatment. This collaboration marks AbbVie's entry into the obesity field and involves incorporating Gubra's peptide into AbbVie's global development and commercialization infrastructure.
"At AbbVie, we are focused on transforming the future of patient care in areas where significant unmet need persists," said Robert A. Michael, CEO of AbbVie. "Our partnership with Gubra marks our entry into the obesity field, offering a compelling opportunity based on the potential to address patient needs while also fostering long-term growth for our company."
GUB014295 is currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials. It acts as an agonist activating amylin and calcitonin receptors. Amylin is a satiety hormone that can suppress appetite and delay gastric emptying.
"Obesity represents a significant global health concern with nearly 900 million adults with obesity, many of whom struggle to stay on current treatment options," said Roopal Thakkar, M.D., executive vice president at AbbVie. "Building on Gubra's experience in the discovery of novel peptide-based therapeutics, we look forward to advancing the development of the GUB014295 program."
Henrik Blou, CEO of Gubra stated: "We are excited to partner with AbbVie given its strong capabilities in both the development and commercialization of life-changing medicines." He added that this collaboration will accelerate the development of GUB014295.
Under this agreement, AbbVie will lead global development and commercialization activities for GUB014295. In return, Gubra will receive $350 million upfront and may earn up to $1.875 billion through milestone payments along with tiered royalties from global sales. The deal is subject to regulatory approvals.
Morgan Stanley & Co. International plc served as financial advisor to Gubra A/S while Goodwin Procter LLP and Plesner Advokatpartnerselskab acted as legal advisors.
An investor conference call hosted by Henrik Blou alongside other executives will take place today at 10:00 am CET.
The ongoing Phase 1 trial includes two parts involving single and multiple ascending subcutaneous doses. More details can be found on ClinicalTrials.gov under NCT: 06144684.
AbbVie's mission focuses on innovative solutions across several therapeutic areas including immunology and oncology among others. More information about their work can be found at www.abbvie.com.
Founded in Denmark in 2008, Gubra specializes in pre-clinical research services within metabolic diseases among others with activities divided between CRO Services and Discovery & Partnerships (D&P). Additional information is available at www.gubra.dk.
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