United Kingdom-based AstraZeneca has signed a contract with Japan-based Takeda Pharmaceutical to jointly develop and commercialise MEDI1341, it was reported yesterday.

The product is an alpha-synuclein antibody presently in development as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease. It is reportedly differentiated by its high affinity, high selectivity and reduced effector function (lower interaction with the immune system), which has the potential to achieve a better efficacy and safety profile than other alpha-synuclein antibodies. The product is due to enter Phase I clinical trials later this year.

According to the terms of the contract, AstraZeneca will lead Phase I development, while Takeda will lead future clinical development activities. Both firms will share equally future development and commercialisation costs for MEDI1341 and any future revenues. Takeda will pay AstraZeneca up to USD400m, including initial revenue in 2017 and development and sales milestones thereafter. Additional terms of the agreement have not been revealed.