China-based Jacobio Pharma (HKG: 1167) has announced a partnership agreement with compatriot firm WestChina-Frontier PharmaTech, a non-clinical research evaluation organization. The collaboration aims to accelerate pre-clinical safety assessment studies for multiple first-in-class drug candidates. Specifically, the two companies will jointly conduct comprehensive toxicological research on multiple preclinical projects, including the KRASulti inhibitor (JAB-23400) and P53 agonist (JAB-30300).
Comprehensive Toxicological Research
The joint research will focus on discovering toxic doses and reactions, determining safe ranges, and identifying toxic target organs. These research results will be crucial in supporting the Investigational New Drug (IND) filings for the said projects. This comprehensive approach ensures that the drug candidates are thoroughly evaluated for safety before advancing to clinical trials.
Previous Collaboration and Clinical Progress
The two companies previously collaborated on Jacobio’s KRAS G12C inhibitor glecirasib, successfully concluding the general toxicological studies required for New Drug Application (NDA) filing. Glecirasib was awarded breakthrough therapy designation (BTD) in China in December last year for use in second-line and subsequent treatments for advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with KRAS G12C mutation. The drug is currently undergoing a Phase II pivotal study in China. Additionally, Jacobio has initiated multiple Phase I/II clinical studies for glecirasib in advanced solid tumors in China, the US, and Europe, including as a first-line treatment for STK11 co-mutation NSCLC and in combination with SHP2 inhibitor JAB-3312, anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody, and cetuximab.
Strategic Implications
This partnership between Jacobio Pharma and WestChina-Frontier PharmaTech underscores the importance of rigorous preclinical safety assessments in the development of innovative therapies. By leveraging the expertise of WestChina-Frontier, Jacobio aims to expedite the development of its first-in-class drug candidates, ensuring that they meet the highest safety standards. This collaboration is expected to enhance Jacobio’s position in the global pharmaceutical market and contribute to the advancement of novel treatments for cancer and other serious diseases.-Fineline Info & Tech
