October 21, 2010 (Seattle, WA) - Fenwick & West LLP congratulates client Synosia Therapeutics on its recently announced collaboration and investment round with UCB Pharma. Fenwick has provided Synosia with strategic and comprehensive intellectual property counseling since 2008, and the firm co-managed the IP diligence related to both deals with UCB along with law firms Cooley Godward Kronish LLP and Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP.
Switzerland-based Synosia entered into a collaboration with UCB to develop two compounds for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Both compounds, SYN-115 and SYN-118, are in Phase II clinical trials. Up to $725 million for the two compounds could be awarded to Synosia should regulatory and commercial milestones be reached. Additional compounds from either company's pipeline may be brought into the collaboration on terms to be negotiated.
In addition, UCB led Synosia's $30 million third round, the most recent of the company's total $92 million since its formation in 2005. UCB contributed $20 million to the round with $10 million coming from existing investors including Versant Ventures, 5Am Ventures, Novo A/S, Aravis Venture, Investor Growth Capital and Swiss Helvetia Fund.
The Fenwick team, which has significant experience with IP issues related to neurologic therapeutics, was lead by Andrew T. Serafini, Ph.D. and Melissa M. Harwood Ph.D.
Read more about the UCB and Synosia Therapeutics strategic alliance.
Established in 1972, Fenwick & West works closely with clean technology, life sciences and other technology companies that are changing the world through innovation. The firm has more than 30 years of experience crafting innovative solutions to the business challenges that arise at the intersection of technology and the law. Fenwick & West clients, who range from start-up ventures to global enterprises, value our attorneys' deep industry experience and understanding of their technologies.