China-based Jacobio Pharma (HKG: 1167) has announced the cancellation of a licensing agreement with US pharmaceutical company AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV), which implies that Jacobio will regain global rights to the out-licensed SHP2 inhibitors. This decision was made as part of an asset portfolio and strategy review. Initially, the deal was struck in June 2020, with AbbVie agreeing to pay USD 45 million upfront for exclusive rights to JAB-3312 and JAB-3068, two SHP2 inhibitor projects.
Background on the SHP2 Inhibitor Collaboration
Under the original agreement, Jacobio was to conduct early global clinical research for the SHP2 projects until AbbVie took over for global development and commercialization. AbbVie was also responsible for bearing the related research and development costs. The SHP2 inhibitors are significant in the field of oncology, as they target a key signaling regulatory molecule in the RAS/MAPK pathway, which is crucial for the activity of many oncogenic gene mutations that promote tumor growth.
Dual Role of SHP2 Inhibitors in Oncology and Immune Function
SHP2 inhibitors have a dual therapeutic potential: they can slow down cancer cell growth and调节 immune function to activate anti-tumor effects. Their role in avoiding drug resistance is particularly important when combined with inhibitors of various oncogenic driving factors.
Jacobio’s Ongoing Clinical Development of SHP2 Inhibitors
Jacobio’s JAB-3312, an SHP2 inhibitor currently in Phase IIa trials, is anticipated to produce study data combined with KRAS G12C inhibitor glecirasib later this year. The company will continue to advance the global clinical development of its SHP2 inhibitor program, marking a significant step forward in the company’s oncology pipeline.-Fineline Info & Tech
