The Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) has indicated on its website that China-based biotech firm LianBio (Nasdaq: LIAN) has been awarded priority review status for its drug mavacamten. This status is for the treatment of adult patients with symptomatic New York Heart Association (NYHA) heart function II-III obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (oHCM), aiming to improve functional ability and symptoms. Mavacamten has previously obtained breakthrough therapy designation for use in treating adult patients with symptomatic oHCM.
Mavacamten: A First-in-Class Treatment for HCM
Discovered by Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS, NYSE: BMY) subsidiary MyoKardia Inc. (Nasdaq: MYOK), mavacamten is a first-in-class small-molecule drug that reversibly binds to myosin, targeting the excess contractility and impaired relaxation that underlie HCM. This innovative approach offers a potential new treatment option for patients suffering from this condition.
LianBio’s Strategic Licensing Deal with MyoKardia
LianBio announced a license deal with MyoKardia for mavacamten in 2020, which included an upfront payment of USD 40 million and potential payments of up to USD 147.5 million in sales and regulatory milestones. This strategic partnership highlights LianBio’s commitment to bringing innovative treatments to patients in China.
Mavacamten’s Global Progress and Market Potential
BMS secured approval for mavacamten in the US in April 2022, marketing the drug under the trade name Camzyos. With this approval and the priority review status in China, mavacamten is poised to make a significant impact on the treatment landscape for oHCM patients worldwide.-Fineline Info & Tech
