Arcturus, JNJ to develop nucleic acids to treat HBV

Arcturus Therapeutics Inc. (San Diego, Calif.) and the Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc. unit of Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) partnered to develop and commercialize nucleic acid-based compounds to treat HBV. The companies will use Arcturus' unlocked nucleomonomer agent (UNA) Oligomer chemistry and LUNAR lipid-mediated delivery platform. The deal includes an option to expand into other infectious and respiratory diseases.

Arcturus will receive an undisclosed upfront cash payment and R&D support, and will be eligible for preclinical, developmental and sales milestone payments, as well as royalties. Janssen will assume responsibility for development costs and all commercialization costs associated with the program...