Plus, news about AEON Biopharma, Moderna and Mitsubishi Tanabe:
Sanofi expands dermatology trials: Kymera Therapeutics said that expanding the Phase 2 hidradenitis suppurativa and atopic dermatitis studies will “more rapidly progress” the candidate, dubbed KT-474, into pivotal studies. Sanofi and Kymera are collaborating on the development of the IRAK4 degrader. Kymera’s stock $KYMR jumped up nearly 20% following the announcement. — Katherine Lewin
Ligand Pharmaceuticals to acquire Apeiron and royalty rights to neuroblastoma drug: The $100 million deal also includes up to $28 million to Apeiron shareholders if the nuero drug, called Qarziba, brings in royalties that exceed predetermined thresholds over the next decade. Ligand CEO Todd Davis wrote in a statement that he believes Qarziba “will be a meaningful contributor to our royalty revenue, which is now driven by a diversified portfolio of 12 key commercial-stage products.” — Katherine Lewin
AEON reprioritizes: A few months after laying off 55% of its workforce, the Irvine, CA-based biopharma said it will focus resources to be able to conduct a Phase 3 cervical dystonia study to prove whether its candidate is non-inferior to Botox. — Kyle LaHucik
Moderna and Mitsubishi Tanabe team up: The Covid-19 vaccine maker will co-promote its mRNA respiratory vaccine portfolio in Japan with the local Osaka-based pharma company. The duo did not disclose financial terms of the agreement, which has an “initial term” until March 31, 2029. — Kyle LaHucik