Otsuka Inks $613M Deal for Cantargia’s Autoimmune Antibodies

Otsuka Pharmaceutical has signed a $613 million deal with Swedish biotech Cantargia for the global development and commercialization rights to Cantargia’s CAN10 immunology program, focused on IL1RAP antibodies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases12.

The deal includes a $33 million upfront cash payment to Cantargia, with potential milestone payments totaling up to $580 million, plus tiered, double-digit royalties on future global sales124.

CAN10 is being tested in a phase 1 trial for hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic skin disorder, and is also under investigation for systemic sclerosis1.

Otsuka will take over all development, manufacturing, and commercialization responsibilities for CAN10, and also receives rights to a preclinical ‘backup’ IL1RAP antibody and first negotiation rights on future IL1RAP antibody candidates from Cantargia1.

The completion of the transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the third quarter of 202524.

Sources:

1. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/otsuka-inks-613m-deal-swedish-biotechs-autoimmune-antibodies

2. https://www.thepharmaletter.com/biotechnology/otsuka-bets-on-cantargia-in-deal-worth-up-to-613-million

4. https://pipelinereview.com/otsuka-acquires-worldwide-rights-to-cantargias-can10-for-development-andcommercialization-as-a-potential-treatment-for-autoimmune-diseases/