Acceleron, Shire in activin receptor deal

Acceleron Pharma Inc. (Cambridge, Mass.) granted Shire plc (LSE:SHP; NASDAQ:SHPGY) exclusive rights outside North America to its molecules targeting the activin receptor type 2b (ACVR2B) pathway. The deal includes ACE-031, a myostatin (GDF8) inhibitor in Phase IIa testing to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and other molecules for muscular and neuromuscular disorders. Acceleron will receive $45 million up front and is eligible for up to $453 million in milestones, plus royalties. ...