China-based Innovent Biologics, Inc. (HKG: 1801) has announced a significant licensing agreement with Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche (SWX: ROG). The agreement grants Roche global exclusive development, manufacturing, and commercialization rights to Innovent’s IBI3009, a DLL3-targeted antibody drug conjugate (ADC) that is anticipated to offer new treatment options for patients with small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). IBI3009 was first dosed in Phase I clinical trials in December of the previous year.
Collaboration on Early Development and Future Milestones
Under the terms of the deal, Innovent and Roche will collaborate on the early development of IBI3009, with Roche taking the lead on subsequent clinical development. This partnership aims to leverage Roche’s global resources and expertise to advance the drug’s potential in treating SCLC, a highly aggressive form of lung cancer.
Financial Terms and Potential Royalties
Innovent will receive an upfront payment of USD 80 million from Roche and is eligible to receive up to USD 1 billion in development and commercialization milestone payments. Additionally, Innovent stands to earn mid-double-digit tiered royalties based on global annual net sales of IBI3009, highlighting the potential commercial significance of this drug candidate.-Fineline Info & Tech
