China-based Harbour BioMed (HKG: 2142) has formed a strategic partnership with UK pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca (NASDAQ: AZN) to discover and develop next-generation multi-specific antibodies for immunology, oncology, and beyond. The collaboration grants AstraZeneca an option to license multiple programs utilizing Harbour BioMed’s proprietary Harbour Mice fully human antibody technology platform across various therapeutic areas, alongside a USD 105 million equity investment in Harbour Bio.
Collaboration Details
Under the agreement, AstraZeneca will obtain the option to license two preclinical immunology programs and will nominate additional targets for Harbour BioMed to discover next-generation multi-specific antibodies. AstraZeneca will have the option to license these programs for advancement into clinical development, with an initial focus on ongoing research programs and potential for expansion into additional areas. As part of the collaboration, an innovation center will be jointly established in Beijing to facilitate research and development efforts.
Financial Terms
Financially, AstraZeneca will provide an upfront payment, near-term milestone payments, and option exercise fees for additional programs, totaling USD 175 million. The deal also includes up to USD 4.4 billion in additional development and commercial milestone payments, along with tiered royalties on future net sales. Furthermore, AstraZeneca will acquire 9.15% newly issued shares of Harbour BioMed, reflecting a significant commitment to the partnership and the potential of Harbour BioMed’s technology platform.-Fineline Info & Tech
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