BMS licences potential first-in-class cancer biologic
pharmafile | July 7, 2011 | News story | Research and Development | BMS, Cancer, biologics
Bristol-Myers Squibb has signed a $465 million deal for the rights to a potential first-in-class treatment for cancer.
IPH2102 is a novel fully human monoclonal antibody that blocks interaction between Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) on Natural Killer (NK) cells with their ligands.
By blocking these receptors it facilitates activation of NK cells and, potentially, destruction of tumour cells by the latter.
Currently in phase I, IPH2102 was discovered by Innate Pharma and the Marseille-based company said the agreement was the largest biotech licensing deal ever signed in France.
Its terms will see BMS fund the development of IPH2102, make an upfront payment of $35 million and additional milestone payments of up to $430 million, as well as double-digit royalty payments on worldwide net sales.
In return the pharma company gains exclusive worldwide rights to develop, manufacture and commercialise IPH2102 and related KIR receptor blocking compounds.
The agreement covers all potential indications for IPH2102, including in acute myeloid leukaemia, development of which Innate Pharma will continue run until the end of phase II.
The early-stage biologic may be able to harness a patient’s immune system in the fight against cancer and will be developed in a range of oncology indications.
“Bristol-Myers Squibb’s String of Pearls strategy seeks to establish collaborations with leading innovator companies across the globe,” said Mike Seeley, general manager, France, Bristol-Myers Squibb.
“We are excited to establish an important such collaboration in France with Innate Pharma, a pioneer in the field of innate immunity. This collaboration highlights our commitment to France, the French biotech community and to immuno-oncology, an area in which Bristol-Myers Squibb has developed a robust pipeline including ipilimumab.”
Early this year ipilimumab hit its phase III target of increasing overall survival in advanced melanoma patients and European regulators are expected to make a decision on the skin cancer vaccine later this year.
Dominic Tyer
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