Shanghai Henlius Biotech Inc. (HKG: 2696), a leading biotechnology company based in China, has announced an expansion of its alliance with Palleon Pharmaceuticals Inc. This partnership, originally established in June 2022, now includes the US firm in the development and commercialization of a combination therapy using Palleon’s E-602 and Henlius’ HanLiKang (rituximab) for patients with autoimmune diseases, including lupus nephritis (LN).
E-602 and HanLiKang: Innovative Therapies for Autoimmune Diseases
E-602, a first-in-class human sialidase enzyme therapeutic developed using Palleon’s EAGLE glycan editing platform, is set to be combined with HanLiKang, the first-ever biosimilar developed and approved in China. This combination aims to provide a novel treatment option for autoimmune diseases, which have a significant impact on patient quality of life.
Financial Terms and Global Rights Agreement
Under the deal terms, Palleon is eligible to receive up to USD 95.3 million upon achieving certain predetermined development and commercial milestones, in addition to royalties upon E-602’s commercialization in China. Henlius will lead and fund the development of E-602 in China in combination with HANLIKANG for the treatment of lupus nephritis. Furthermore, Henlius receives an exclusive license for E-602 in China, while Palleon retains all other global rights, ensuring a balanced global development and commercialization strategy.-Fineline Info & Tech
