Norgine to develop and commercialize Tranzyme's ulimorelin ghrelin agonist

Tranzyme Pharma, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, and Norgine B.V., a European specialty pharmaceutical company, announced today that they have entered into a licensing agreement that provides Norgine with the exclusive rights to develop and commercialize Tranzyme's novel ghrelin agonist, ulimorelin (TZP-101), in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, South Africa and North Africa. Ulimorelin is entering Phase 3 development for the treatment of gastrointestinal dysmotility conditions in acute care settings.

“Norgine's focus on pharmaceutical products that address unmet medical needs, and their development and commercial experience and expertise in European markets, make them an ideal strategic and co-development partner for Tranzyme”

Under the agreement, Norgine will make an upfront payment of $8 million and will also make an equity investment in Tranzyme. Further, Tranzyme is eligible to receive up to approximately $150 million if certain development, regulatory and commercial milestones are achieved. Tranzyme will also receive escalating double-digit royalties on net sales in the licensed territories. The companies will jointly fund further development of ulimorelin and anticipate initiating pivotal Phase 3 studies in the second half of 2010.

"Norgine's focus on pharmaceutical products that address unmet medical needs, and their development and commercial experience and expertise in European markets, make them an ideal strategic and co-development partner for Tranzyme," said Vipin K. Garg, PhD, President and CEO of Tranzyme. "This partnership allows us to monetize part of the value of ulimorelin, while still retaining the significant upside of North American and Asian markets."

Peter Stein, Chairman and CEO of Norgine said, "There is a critical need for a new, safe and effective prokinetic drug for use in acute care settings, as there are no satisfactory treatments on the market. We have been very impressed with the work that Tranzyme have done to take ulimorelin through Phase 2 development and we are excited to be working with them on this innovative therapy, which could bring relief to millions of patients."