Dashi Pharmaceuticals (Guangdong) Co., Ltd. (“Dashi Pharmaceuticals”) today announced that it has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Slate Medicines, Inc., a U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company. Under the agreement, Slate Medicines will obtain the exclusive global rights (excluding Greater China) for the clinical development and commercialization of DS009 (to be named SLTE-1009 by Slate Medicines), a potentially best-in-class anti-pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) monoclonal antibody independently developed by Dashan Pharmaceuticals. This antibody is intended for the preventive treatment of headache disorders such as migraine. DS009 becomes China’s first homegrown, non-opioid biologic analgesic to achieve an “out-licensing” deal.
Migraine affects approximately 14% of the global population and is a chronic neurovascular disorder that severely impacts human health. Existing anti-CGRP antibody therapies are ineffective for 30% to 60% of patients, representing a significant unmet clinical need. As one of the core pipelines in Dashi Pharmaceuticals’ pain management portfolio, DS009 is an innovative monoclonal antibody targeting PACAP—a target independent of CGRP that has been clinically validated. It offers a new treatment option for tens of millions of migraine patients worldwide who respond inadequately to current therapies.
The antibody has been engineered to extend its half-life, enabling subcutaneous administration to enhance patient convenience and compliance. Following the licensing, Slate Medicines will lead clinical development outside Greater China, with clinical trials expected to commence in mid-2026.
Under the agreement, Dashi Pharmaceuticals will receive an upfront payment, milestone payments tied to development and regulatory achievements, and tiered royalties on global net sales, while retaining the rights to develop and commercialize DS009 in Greater China. This collaboration marks the entry of DS009 into the fast track of global clinical development and represents a significant validation of the company’s research capabilities.