By Fineline Cube 
Chinese firms Harbour BioMed (HKG: 2142) and Sichuan Kelun Biotech BioPharmaceutical (HKG: 6990) have entered into a license agreement with Switzerland-based drug developer Windward Bio AG. Windward Bio, which officially launched with a USD 200 million Series A financing round, has been granted global rights to HBM9378/SKB378, an anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) fully human monoclonal antibody (mAb) co-developed by Harbour and Kelun-Biotech. The agreement excludes Greater China and several Southeast and West Asian countries.
Agreement Terms and Financials
Under the terms of the agreement, Windward Bio is granted research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization rights to HBM9378/SKB378. In return, Harbour BioMed and Kelun-Biotech are eligible to receive a total of up to USD 970 million in upfront and milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties ranging from single to double digits on net sales. The initial USD 45 million upfront and near-term milestone payments include both cash payments and an equity interest in Windward Bio’s parent company. Additionally, Harbour BioMed and Kelun-Biotech are eligible to receive additional payments if Windward Bio undergoes a near-term change of control or enters into a sublicense agreement with a third party. All payments under the license agreement shall be paid in equal amounts to Harbour BioMed and Kelun-Biotech.
Windward Bio’s Backers
Windward Bio’s financing round was led by prominent investors including OrbiMed, Novo Holdings, and Blue Owl Healthcare Opportunities, with contributions from SR One, Omega Funds, RTW Investments, Qiming Venture Partners, Quan Capital, Pivotal bioVenture Partners, and others. This strong financial backing positions Windward Bio to advance the development and commercialization of HBM9378/SKB378 globally.
Future Prospects
The license agreement between Harbour BioMed, Kelun-Biotech, and Windward Bio AG is a strategic move that combines the strengths of Chinese biotechs with the global reach of a Swiss drug developer. This partnership aims to accelerate the development of HBM9378/SKB378, offering a new treatment option for patients with TSLP-related diseases. The significant financial commitment from Windward Bio and its backers underscores the potential of HBM9378/SKB378 in the global market.-Fineline Info & Tech