Eli Lilly licensed Hanmi Pharm’s Phase 2-stage GLP-2 agonist sonefpeglutide for short bowel syndrome, expanding Lilly’s gastrointestinal pipeline. Under the agreement, Lilly will pay $75 million upfront and potentially up to $1.185 billion in clinical, regulatory, and commercialization milestones, plus royalties. The license covers all countries except Korea. Hanmi is expected to complete the ongoing mid-stage study while Lilly initiates new studies based on nonclinical and clinical data. Lilly’s development is targeting the same orphan indication where Takeda’s Gattex (teduglutide) is already FDA-approved, typically as a daily injection. Hanmi’s program is designed as a long-acting monthly option, aiming to reduce treatment burden. The companies highlighted preclinical claims that sonefpeglutide could support intestinal growth, reduce inflammation, and protect intestinal mucosa.