Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. and Altos Therapeutics have entered into a definitive agreement to further develop Altos’ ATC-1906 compound for the treatment of gastroparesis (GP). The agreement also includes an exclusive option for Takeda to acquire Altos following the completion of ongoing Phase I studies of ATC-1906.  
 
GP is a chronic gastric motility disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying. Symptoms include early satiety, post-prandial fullness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Diabetic gastroparesis and idiopathic gastroparesis have high unmet need.
 
Altos is developing the ATC-1906 compound as an oral dopamine D2/D3 receptor antagonist that addresses the symptoms of nausea and vomiting in GP patients. Takeda will make an upfront payment with the option to acquire Altos. If Takeda elects to exercise the option, Takeda would make an additional payment and assume control over development and commercialization of ATC-1906. Altos would be eligible to receive development and commercial milestones.
 
“There is a significant unmet need for a treatment to help patients with gastroparesis, and developing novel and innovative treatments for patients suffering from gastrointestinal disorders is a top priority for Takeda’s global R&D strategy,” said Dr. Asit Parikh, senior vice president and head of Takeda’s Gastroenterology Therapeutic Area Unit. “This agreement reinforces Takeda’s commitment to developing highly differentiated medicines to improve the health and quality of life of patients around the world.”