UK-based RNA immunotherapy developer Epitopea announced a licensing and research cooperation agreement with US pharmaceutical giant Merck, Sharp & Dohme (MSD, NYSE: MRK). The partnership aims to identify Cryptigen tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) in an undisclosed solid tumor. These antigens, derived from non-coding regions of the genome, are shared, non-mutated, and aberrantly expressed.
Collaboration Details
Under the agreement, Epitopea will leverage its proprietary CryptoMap platform to identify novel, immunogenic Cryptigen TSAs for a specified tumor type. MSD will gain exclusive rights to develop and commercialize any therapeutics resulting from the collaboration.
Financial Terms
Epitopea will receive an undisclosed upfront payment and is eligible for milestone payments that could total up to USD 300 million per product. The deal underscores the potential of Epitopea’s platform to uncover new targets for cancer immunotherapy.-Fineline Info & Tech
