Allergan partners with Mimetogen to advance development of dry eye treatment

Allergan said last week it has entered into a $50 million licensing deal to develop and commercialize tavilermide (MIM-D3), Mimetogen Pharmaceutical's lead product for the treatment of dry eye syndrome (DES).

DES is an often chronic condition that affects approximately 25 million individuals in the United States. Dry eyes are caused by either decreased tear production or poor tear quality. The condition can develop due to a variety of factors such as advanced age, long-term use of contact lenses, the intake of certain medicines, medical conditions or environmental conditions.

Tavilermide is a topical treatment that works by triggering the production of a naturally occurring protein in the tear film known as mucin that functions as both a lubricant and chemical barrier for the ocular surface.

"Allergan is committed to leading in the development of novel therapies in eye care and dry eye disease," Allergan Executive Vice President and President of Global Brands Research and Dvelopment David Nicholson said. "Tavilermide brings a novel approach to treating the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease by enhancing the ocular tear film. If approved, tavilermide would provide another exciting new treatment option for patients suffering with dry eye and further strengthen our dry eye portfolio and pipeline."

In addition to paying Mimetogen $50 million upfront, Allergan will also offer the company funds for milestones and royalties based on sales of tavilermide.

Tavilermide is currently being tested for safety and efficacy in Phase 3 clinical studies in the U.S.