Eisai Co., Ltd. and Eisai, Inc. have signed a $205 million product acquisition agreement with Ligand Pharmaceuticals in which Eisai will obtain exclusive global rights for Ontak, Targretin capsules, Targretin gel 1% and Panretin gel 0.1%. Also, Eisai, Inc. will offer certain Ligand personnel, employment.

The acquisition of the four oncology-related products are part of the company's strategic business plan to help establish Eisai's global oncology business.

"We believe that Eisai has a promising future in oncology and that the acquisition of these products, as well as the valuable expertise and experience of those Ligand personnel to whom employment will be offered, is a well-planned approach to market entry," said Lonnel Coats, president and chief operating officer, Eisai, Inc. "In addition, our strategic focus in oncology helps fulfill our human health care mission to satisfy unmet medical needs and increase benefits to patients and their families."

The transaction is subject to government approvals and is expected to close before the end of the year.