China-based Akeso Biopharma (HKG: 9926) has announced receiving a drug collaboration development payment from compatriot firm Kelun Pharmaceutical Research Institute, following the National Medical Products Administration’s (NMPA) approval of its programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) monoclonal antibody (mAb) tagitanlimab last month.
Collaboration Background
Akeso entered into a collaboration agreement with Kelun in 2014. Under the terms of the agreement, Akeso is entitled to receive commission based on the commercial sales of tagitanlimab, in addition to payments for drug development. Tagitanlimab marks Akeso’s second product to generate commercial sales commission, following pucotenlimab, a programmed death 1 (PD-1) inhibitor co-developed with China-based Lepu Biotechnology Co., Ltd (HKG: 2157).
Future Outlook
With the NMPA approval of tagitanlimab and the receipt of development payments, Akeso Biopharma is well-positioned to further expand its commercial footprint in the oncology space. This collaboration with Kelun underscores Akeso’s commitment to advancing innovative therapies and leveraging strategic partnerships to drive growth.-Fineline Info & Tech
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