Nabriva Therapeutics, a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company engaged in the research and development of novel anti-infective agents to treat serious infections, with a focus on the pleuromutilin class of antibiotics, and Roivant Sciences, have announced the initiation of a collaboration to develop and commercialize lefamulin in greater China.

Lefamulin has completed a pivotal, international Phase 3 clinical trial for the treatment of adults with moderate to severe community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP). Topline data from a second pivotal, international Phase 3 clinical trial are expected in the spring of 2018.

As part of the license agreement, Nabriva has granted a Roivant subsidiary an exclusive license to develop and commercialize lefamulin in the greater China region, specifically the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.

The companies will establish a joint development committee to review and oversee all development and commercialization plans. Nabriva will receive a $5 million upfront payment and will be eligible for up to approximately $90 million in additional payments tied to the successful completion of certain regulatory and commercial milestones related to lefamulin for CABP.

In addition, Nabriva will be eligible to receive low double-digit royalties on sales upon approval in the covered territories. Roivant’s affiliate will be solely responsible for all clinical development and regulatory filings necessary to secure approval in the covered territories.