Palatin Technologies, the US-based biopharmaceutical company focused on developing medicines that modulate the melanocortin receptor system, announced it has achieved a research milestone under its collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, triggering a 6.5 million payment to the company.

"We are very pleased to reach this milestone and continue building momentum with Boehringer Ingelheim. Melanocortin receptor agonists represent a differentiated and promising approach to address the underlying drivers of retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, which affect an estimated one in three people living with diabetes,” said Carl Spana, President and CEO of Palatin.

The companies entered into a strategic partnership on August 18, 2025, to develop potential first-in-class melanocortin receptor–targeted therapies for retinal diseases.

The melanocortin receptor (MCR) system plays a key role in regulating inflammation, immune responses, and metabolism, with receptor-specific agonists offering a novel therapeutic strategy for multiple conditions, including retinal disorders.

Under the terms of the agreement, Palatin has received an upfront payment of USD 2.3 million and is eligible for research, development, regulatory and commercial milestone payments of up to USD 328 million, as well as tiered royalties on net sales.

Headquartered in Cranbury, New Jersey, Palatin aims to advance its pipeline of innovative melanocortin agonists through development and partner with leading pharmaceutical companies to expand patient access and maximize commercial potential.