Confo Therapeutics has inked a licensing deal with Eli Lilly to develop Confo’s investigational non-opioid approach to treating peripheral pain caused by damage to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord.

Designed to inhibit a specific pain receptor — angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) — CFTX-1554 is currently in early-stage development.

Under the terms of the deal, Lilly will continue the clinical development and has an option to further develop Confo’s other antibody candidates targeting the same receptor.

Confo will receive an upfront payment of $40 million and up to $590 million in potential milestone payments.