Singapore: PeptiDream, Tokyo-based biopharmaceutical company, has entered into a multi-target discovery and optimization collaboration with US-based Genentech, a member of the Roche Group.

PeptiDream will use its proprietary Peptide Discovery Platform System (PDPS) technology to identify macrocyclic/constrained peptides against multiple targets of interest selected by Genentech, and to optimize hit peptides into therapeutic peptides or small molecule products. Genentech will have the right to develop and commercialize all molecules resulting from the collaboration.

Under the terms of the agreement, PeptiDream will receive an undisclosed upfront payment, research funding and is eligible for payments associated with the achievement of certain preclinical and clinical development milestones. In addition, PeptiDream is eligible to receive royalties on sales of any products that arise from the collaboration. The Roche Group retains an option to nonexclusively license the PDPS technology at a future date.

"We are very excited to be collaborating with the Genentech", said Mr Kiichi Kubota, CEO, PeptiDream. "This deal further validates the potential of PeptiDream's unique PDPS platform and matches PeptiDream's growing capabilities in turning PDPS identified hits into clinical candidates with Genentech's expertise in drug discovery and development."