LEO Pharma and Japan Tobacco (JT) have entered into a license agreement, under which LEO Pharma will obtain exclusive rights to further develop, register and market JT’s experimental JAK inhibitor, JTE-052, for topical use in dermatological indications worldwide, excluding Japan where JT retains rights.

The compound, currently in phase I trials for topical treatment of inflammatory skin conditions, has the potential to become LEO Pharma’s new platform for developing multiple treatment options for various inflammatory skin conditions.

Kim Kjoeller, senior vice president, global development, LEO Pharma, said, “While it’s still early days, LEO Pharma hopes this deal can pave the way for a series of new, safe and effective therapies for patients living with skin conditions. JT’s innovative compound not only has the potential to become a best-in-class therapeutic agent for topical treatment of inflammatory skin diseases, but also to offer LEO Pharma an entirely new platform for developing future patient solutions.” 

LEO Pharma will be responsible for clinical and commercial activities, including manufacturing, outside Japan. JT will receive an upfront payment, development and sales milestone payments as well as royalties based on product sales.