Alumis and Kaken partner on new dermatology drug, ESK-001, with Kaken paying up to $180 million.

Alumis and Kaken Pharmaceutical have partnered to develop and sell ESK-001, a new oral TYK2 inhibitor for dermatology in Japan. Kaken will pay $40 million upfront and could pay up to $140 million more in milestones and royalties. Alumis retains global rights except Japan, where Kaken will handle development and commercialization, with potential to expand to other diseases.