Inmagene Biopharmaceuticals, a China-based biopharmaceutical company, has announced a strategic collaboration with US firm Aditum Bio to establish Celexor Bio, a joint venture (JV) focused on utilizing the mechanism of clearing pathological cells to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. This collaboration aims to leverage the expertise of both companies to develop innovative therapies for these conditions.
Joint Venture and Licensing Agreement
Under the terms of the agreement, Celexor Bio will be licensed exclusive global development, manufacturing, and commercial rights to Inmagene’s pipeline candidate, IMG-018. The deal includes potential development and sales milestone payments of up to USD 287 million, along with royalties on any future sales. Additionally, Inmagene Bio will acquire shares in Celexor Bio, with the transaction expected to close by the end of this month.
IMG-018: A Monoclonal Antibody for Pathological Cell Clearance
IMG-018 is a monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting immunoglobulin-like transcript 7 (ILT7), a highly specific cell surface marker found on plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). Through antibody engineering modification, IMG-018/CLXR-901 has been enhanced for cell killing function and can play a role in clearing pDC through various effector cells, offering a potential new approach to treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Inmagene Bio’s Pipeline and Collaborations
Inmagene Bio is developing a portfolio of highly differentiated clinical assets, including IMG-007 (an anti-OX40 mAb with extended half-life and silenced ADCC function), IMG-004 (a BTKi with long half-life and pharmacodynamic duration), and IMG-008 (a long-acting anti-IL-36R mAb). The company is also co-developing IMG-020 (izokibep, an anti-IL-17 fusion protein) with its partners, holding certain global upside in addition to development and commercialization rights in some Asia regions.
Conclusion
The establishment of Celexor Bio and the collaboration with Aditum Bio mark a significant step forward for Inmagene Biopharmaceuticals in its mission to develop novel therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. With a robust pipeline and strategic partnerships, Inmagene is well-positioned to make an impact in this therapeutic area.-Fineline Info & Tech
