In March of 2007 AVANIR announced a successful conclusion to the research collaboration with Novartis to develop orally active small molecule therapeutics targeting macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) as potential treatments for inflammatory diseases. Novartis has now assumed all continuing research and development activities for the MIF program with plans to further develop the lead candidate AVP-28225. AVANIR will receive a milestone payment if the molecule reaches the next stage of development and is eligible to receive additional milestone payments through clinical development and royalty payments on worldwide sales if the technology is ultimately commercialized.