STAT6 is a specific transcription factor necessary for IL-4 and IL-13 cytokine signaling, which have been clinically validated as targets for various inflammatory diseases such as atopic dermatitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In preclinical studies, targeting STAT6 has shown potential for treating a wide patient population and provides an oral alternative for patients currently receiving injectable biologics therapy.
According to the cooperation agreement, Gilead will acquire all oral STAT6 small molecule inhibitors and targeted protein degraders projects from LEO Pharma. Gilead will lead the further development of these oral projects, while LEO Pharma will lead the development of potential local formulations of STAT6 inhibitors. Gilead will have the global rights to develop, produce, and commercialize small molecule oral STAT6 projects. LEO Pharma will have the right to choose to jointly commercialize oral projects in the field of dermatology outside the United States. LEO Pharma will retain the exclusive global rights to develop STAT6 topical formulations in the field of dermatology. LEO Pharma will be eligible to receive a total of up to $1.7 billion, including a $250 million advance payment.
AbbVie and Simcere Pharmaceutical Group's subsidiary, Simcere, announced today that they have reached a licensing agreement for Simcere's investigational drug candidate SIM0500. SIM0500 is currently undergoing phase 1 clinical trials in both China and the United States for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (MM).
SIM0500 is a humanized tri specific antibody developed by Xiansheng Zaiming through its proprietary T cell adaptor multi specific antibody technology platform. This molecule binds to low affinity yet highly targeted activated CD3 antibodies, as well as two anti-tumor related antibodies against G protein coupled receptor C family member D (GPRC5D) and B cell maturation antigen (BCMA). SIM0500 exhibits strong T-cell toxicity against MM cells through various anti-tumor mechanisms.
According to the terms of the agreement, Xiansheng Zaiming will receive a prepayment from AbbVie, as well as up to $1.055 billion in selective equity payments and milestone payments.
<Reprinted from WuXi AppTec>
