Dr Falk Pharma, Allianthera Partner To Develop Novel AhR Agonist

KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 (Bernama) -- Dr Falk Pharma GmbH and Allianthera have announced a strategic agreement to co-develop and commercialise ATB102, an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist currently in Phase 1 trials in the United States.

The partnership aims to advance ATB102 as a new treatment for refractory moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC) and potentially broader inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) indications, according to a statement.

Under the deal, Dr Falk Pharma gains exclusive global rights, excluding Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, to license, manufacture, and commercialise ATB102. In return, Allianthera will receive upfront fees, development and sales milestone payments, and tiered royalties.

Dr Falk Pharma Managing Director, Science & Innovation, Dr Kai Pinkernell said ATB102 expands the company’s pipeline and strengthens its commitment to advancing innovation in digestive disease treatment.

“We look forward to the collaboration with Allianthera to bring this promising therapy to patients worldwide,” he said.

Meanwhile, Allianthera Chief Executive Officer, Yuanhua Ding said this partnership merges Allianthera’s discovery strength with Dr Falk’s formulation and clinical expertise.

“Together, we aim to accelerate the delivery of a much-needed therapy for UC,” added Ding.

ATB102, developed by Allianthera, is a gut-targeted AhR agonist with anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and mucosal barrier-restoring properties. Preclinical data suggests the compound offers a differentiated mechanism of action for patients unresponsive to existing therapies.

Dr Falk Pharma, in collaboration with its contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) arm Losan Pharma, will develop a colonic-release formulation to optimise delivery of ATB102 in the lower gastrointestinal tract.

-- BERNAMA