Forge Therapeutics and Roche have entered into a research collaboration and option agreement for FG-LpxC LUNG, a novel antibiotic for the treatment of serious lung infections attributed to antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The FG-LpxC LUNG program is being developed to treat hospital-based infections, including those cited on the CDC's most urgent threats list, which commonly occur in people with weakened immune systems and chronic lung diseases.  

Roche has an exclusive option to license the FG-LpxC LUNG program from Forge. Forge retains control of the program prior to Roche exercising its option, at which time Roche will take over the further development.  Forge is eligible to receive as much as $190.5 million in total payments, including potential sales-based payments and royalties upon commercialization. 

"Antibiotic-resistance remains an increasing threat to global human health and we are extremely pleased to partner with Roche to accelerate our FG-LpxC LUNG program toward the clinic," said Zachary A. Zimmerman, Ph.D., CEO of Forge. "We look forward to combining our novel approach and innovative chemistry with Roche's proven drug development and commercialization expertise to provide a truly new class of antibiotic for people suffering from serious antibiotic-resistant infections."

James Sabry, Head of Roche Pharma Partnering said, "We are excited to work together with Forge to develop truly innovative antibiotics. This new collaboration demonstrates our strong commitment to combat the urgent global health threat of drug-resistant bacterial infections with novel life-saving treatments that have the potential to make a difference in patients' lives."