Merck Serono and Ambrx to develop growth hormone products
Merck Serono plans to develop and commercialise Ambrx's long-acting growth hormone products.
Merck Serono plans to develop and commercialise Ambrx's long-acting growth hormone products.
US-based biopharmaceutical company Ambrx specialised on optimising existing, and developing novel, protein-based drugs. The collaboration with Merck Serono will focus initially on the development of ARX201, the most advanced product candidate, currently in Phase I/II clinical trials. ARX201 has improved pharmacological properties, which should allow less frequent administration than the daily dosing regimen of currently available growth hormones.
For an initial payment to Ambrx, Merck Serono will receive worldwide commercialisation rights for ARX201. Ambrx is also eligible to receive undisclosed clinical, regulatory and commercial milestone payments based on the successful development and commercialization of products, as well as undisclosed royalties on net sales of such products.
In addition, Ambrx retains an option to co-promote products in the U.S. market. If the option is exercised, Ambrx and Merck Serono will share US commercialisation expenses as well as profits. In the event Ambrx declines to exercise its option, it will receive undisclosed royalties on net sales of products worldwide.