The two candidates, PN-235 (JNJ-77242113) and PN-232 (JNJ-75105186), are being developed as part of a portfolio of oral IL-23 receptor antagonists. Protagonist and Janssen have established a co-development and commercialization agreement for IL-23 receptor-targeted therapeutics with applications in multiple disease areas.

The initial candidate from the collaboration, PTG-200 (JNJ-67864238), is being evaluated in an ongoing phase II proof-of-concept study in patients with moderate to severe Crohn's disease. The company anticipates beginning a phase I study of PN-235 in the fourth quarter of 2020.

According to the terms of the agreement, Janssen will be responsible for further development and commercialization activities of candidates beyond phase II development. Protagonist is eligible to receive research, development, regulatory, and sales milestone payments and has an option to co-detail products in the U.S. market.

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