MannKind Corporation (Nasdaq: MNKD) and Rose Pharma Inc. have entered into a worldwide licensing and collaboration agreement to develop ROSE-010 Technosphere, an investigational inhaled GLP-1 receptor agonist intended for weight management, according to a press release from the companies.

Under the agreement, Rose Pharma received an exclusive, worldwide license to use MannKind's proprietary Technosphere dry-powder inhalation technology to develop and commercialize ROSE-010 Technosphere. MannKind will provide pharmaceutical development and manufacturing support through the completion of a Phase 1b clinical study.

In exchange, MannKind will receive an equity interest in Rose Pharma, the right to receive royalties on potential future net sales of ROSE-010 Technosphere, and a seat on Rose Pharma's board of directors. Specific financial terms were not disclosed. Rose Pharma retains responsibility for clinical development, regulatory strategy, and commercialization.

ROSE-010 is described as a rapid-acting, short-duration GLP-1 analogue supported by four completed human clinical trials. In a Phase 2a trial in weight management, the compound showed reductions in mealtime caloric intake and weight loss. A separate Phase 2a study in irritable bowel syndrome patients reported statistically significant pain relief results.

Initial activities under the collaboration will focus on formulation re-establishment and optimization, followed by nonclinical and regulatory-enabling development. The companies said prior feasibility and formulation work involving ROSE-010 and Technosphere technology preceded the agreement.

A patient preference survey of more than 1,300 adults with obesity, led by Angela Fitch, MD, found reported interest in a rapid-acting, short-duration GLP-1 profile. Findings from the survey have been accepted for presentation at ObesityWeek 2026.

MannKind is a Danbury, Connecticut-based biopharmaceutical company. Rose Pharma is a clinical-stage company incorporated in Delaware.