Amunix Operating Inc., a private biopharmaceutical company, entered an agreement to license its Xten technology platform to Roche Holding AG.

Roche intends to use the Xten technology platform, which directs infection-fighting cells in the immune system, to develop non-cancer treatments.

Switzerland-based Roche will pay the Mountain View, Calif.-based Amunix $40 million upfront and up to $1.5 billion in development and sales-based milestones, plus royalties on sales of commercialized products.

"This agreement further validates our foundational Xten technology and its continued potential for biopharmaceutical partners seeking to develop drugs with augmented half-life and low associated immunogenicity," said Amunix CEO Angie You.