Avigen has in-licensed North American rights to tolperisone from Sanochemia. Tolperisone has been a drug in Europe and Japan for many years, but has never been approved in the US, nor clinically developed for the US market. Avigen received a license for all proprietary formulations of the drug in Avigen's territory. Avigen will develop and market the drug in its territory. The deal included $3 million upfront, milestones and royalties. It encompasses a collaboration regarding long-term supply relationship.

Avigen's press release is at the following link:

http://www.avigen.com/non_financial_release/2006/Avigen_Licenses_AV650_011606.htm

The Morrison & Foerster team was led by Laura Spiegelman and included Laurie Hane and Shannon Ryan.