China-based IASO Biotherapeutics has announced a licensing agreement with US firm Cabaletta Bio Inc. (NASDAQ: CABA), granting the latter an exclusive, worldwide license to develop, manufacture, and commercialize a clinically validated fully-human CD19 binder. The binder will be used in a product designed to modify T cells for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. IASO is entitled to receive up to approximately USD 162 million in aggregate payments, including an upfront payment and potential development and sales milestone payments across up to two products, as well as royalties. IASO also retains the right of first negotiation to develop and commercialize Cabaletta’s resulting products using the licensed sequence in the Greater China region.
Clinical Promise of CD19 Targeting
Clinically, CD19-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies have demonstrated the ability to induce deep and durable B cell depletion, resulting in efficacy in treating B-cell malignancies. This supports the potential of this transformative approach in patients with B cell-mediated autoimmune diseases. Existing treatments for such diseases are often limited by either modest effects, leading to resistant and uncontrolled disease, or significant treatment-related morbidity and mortality.
Partnership Details
The partnership aims to develop Cabaletta’s CD19-targeted CAR-T therapy, CABA-201, based on IASO’s CD19 binder. This collaboration is designed to leverage the clinical validation of IASO’s binder to advance Cabaletta’s therapy, potentially offering a more effective and safer treatment option for patients with autoimmune diseases.
Future Outlook
The licensing agreement underscores IASO Biotherapeutics’ commitment to advancing innovative treatments for autoimmune diseases through strategic partnerships. By collaborating with Cabaletta Bio, IASO aims to contribute to the development of next-generation therapies that address significant unmet medical needs.-Fineline Info & Tech
