From Name: From Email: To Name: To Email: Optional Message: University of Michigan biotech spinoff Lycera strikes deal with Merck from AnnArbor.com Lycera and Merck will collaborate to pursue new oral drugs to treat autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. As part of the deal, Merck will pay $12 million upfront to Lycera. But the deal could be worth up to $295 million in milestone payments depending on the key technology's progress. In addition, Lycera would receive royalty payments based on sales performance if the companies' collaboration leads to commercialized therapies. more 7701 Las Colinas Blvd., Ste. 800, Irving, TX 75063