Synthekine Inc. announced a worldwide collaboration with Sanofi to develop and commercialize IL-10 receptor agonists for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. The collaboration will focus on advancing Synthekine's multiple approaches to optimizing IL-10, with the goal of developing selective agonists that expand therapeutic index. Under the terms of the agreement, Synthekine and Sanofi will collaborate on research activities up to a defined point of preclinical development.

Sanofi will assume sole responsibility for subsequent preclinical, clinical, and commercial activities for the IL-10 therapeutics. Synthekine will receive a $40 million upfront payment from Sanofi and will be eligible for additional payments including potential preclinical, development, regulatory and commercial milestones, as well as tiered royalties on net sales.