AstraZeneca PLC will pay a $45 million upfront fee to acquire an exclusive option to commercialize Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co. Ltd.'s (KHK) benralizumab (KHK4563) in Japan for respiratory indications including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
AZ Gains Japan Option To KHK Respiratory Antibody
AstraZeneca is looking at extending its alliance with Japan's Kyowa Hakko Kirin for a respiratory disease antibody, picking up an option to commercialize the interleukin-targeting therapy in Japan in a move that will extend the UK-based firm’s respiratory interests in this major market.