Bayer, the Germany-headquartered multinational pharmaceutical and life sciences company (ETR: BAYN), has entered into a partnership with Shanghai Pharmaceuticals, a leading China-based pharmaceutical distribution giant (SPH; HKG: 2607; SHA: 601607), to co-construct a new life sciences incubator named Co.Lab. This collaboration is designed to foster cutting-edge innovation in cell and gene therapy, among other advanced fields, and to support the industrial translation of scientific research achievements.
Objectives of Co.Lab
The incubator aims to cultivate new drug research and development as well as commercial operation capabilities. It seeks to connect with global pharmaceutical industry networks and resources, empowering the development of local startups. Co.Lab is expected to commence operations in the second half of 2024, providing a platform for innovation and growth in the life sciences sector.
Bayer’s Cooperation with OrigiMed
In a separate initiative, Bayer has entered into a cooperation agreement with OrigiMed, a China-based precision medicine firm, focusing on pan-tumor screening for neurotropic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) fusions. The partnership will leverage the respective strengths and resources of both companies to provide care and services for patients with NTRK fusion positive cancers in China. Additionally, they will jointly explore NTRK pan-tumor precision diagnosis and treatment options.
Bayer’s Vitrakvi and CDx Kit Development
Previously, Bayer’s Vitrakvi (larotrectinib), an oral selective tropomyosin receptor kinase (TRK) inhibitor for the treatment of solid tumors with NTRK-fusion mutations, received marketing approval in China. In conjunction with this, the two companies co-developed an NTRK pan-tumor companion diagnostic (CDx) kit for Vitrakvi, which successfully passed the Center for Drug Evaluation’s special review process.-Fineline Info & Tech
