Shanghai-based LaNova Medicines Ltd, a developer of cancer therapies, has announced a significant global licensing deal with UK pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca (AZ, NASDAQ: AZN). The agreement concerns LM-305, a pre-clinical antibody drug conjugate (ADC) that targets GPRC5D. AstraZeneca will receive exclusive global rights to research, develop, and commercialize LM-305, in exchange for a USD 55 million upfront payment and potential milestone payments up to USD 545 million, plus tiered royalties on future net sales.
LM-305: A Potential Best-in-Class GPRC5D-Targeting ADC
LM-305 is recognized as a potential best-in-class GPRC5D-targeting ADC and has initiated clinical trials in the US and China in July and November 2022, respectively. The drug candidate is considered a potential global first-in-class molecule, highlighting its innovative potential in the field of oncology.
LaNova Medicines: A Clinical-Stage R&D Company Focused on Macromolecular Anti-Tumor Drugs
Established in 2019, LaNova Medicines is a clinical-stage R&D company focused on developing macromolecular anti-tumor drugs using GPCRs for monoclonal antibody production. The company’s differentiated product pipeline includes four clinical-stage drugs targeting CCR8, GPRC5D, Claudin 18.2, and SIRPα. LaNova Medicines has previously secured a significant licensing deal with Turning Point Therapeutics, Inc. (TPTX.US) for LM-302, a Claudin 18.2-targeted ADC, for markets outside Greater China and Korea, in a transaction valued at USD 1 billion. Additionally, LM-108, an in-house developed monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting CCR8, received clinical trial approval in China in May 2022, marking a first for that type of drug domestically.-Fineline Info & Tech
