Almirall enters license agreement with Novo Nordisk to develop NN-8828 in dermatology

Key takeaways:

• NN-8828 is a high affinity monoclonal antibody that targets the IL-21 cytokine.
• Almirall will develop NN-8828 for dermatologic disorders.

Almirall has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Novo Nordisk to develop and commercialize NN-8828 for autoimmune and inflammatory dermatological diseases, according to a company press release.

NN-8828 is high affinity monoclonal antibody that targets the interleukin-21 cytokine. While it has been developed by Novo Nordisk up to phase 2 in nondermatological indications, NN-8828 has the mechanism to block IL-21 signaling, making it a potential treatment option for autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions, according to the release.

"At Almirall, we are dedicated to developing the best possible treatments for patients suffering from skin diseases,” Karl Ziegelbauer, PhD, chief scientific officer of Almirall, said in the release. “This new partnership builds on our innovation strategy and will allow us to explore the innovative approach of IL-21 blockage as a possible new pathway to effectively treat a range of dermatological diseases.”

Almirall has reported that it will accelerate the development and future commercialization of NN-8828 for dermatologic conditions. Novo Nordisk will receive an upfront payment, additional development and commercial milestone payments and tiered royalties.