US-based drugs firm Janssen Pharmaceuticals has gained worldwide rights, excluding China and Korea, to develop and commercialize oxyntomodulin-based treatments for diabetes and obesity from Hanmi Pharmaceutical. Terms of the deal were not revealed.

The therapies include HM12525A, a biologic which is currently completing Phase 1 trials, and is expected to enter Phase 2 studies next year. It has shown evidence of improving blood glucose, body weight and insulin sensitivity.

Janssen said HM12525A has the potential to be a best-in-class therapy, allowing the company to build on its success in diabetes and strengthen its portfolio of treatments for metabolic diseases.