By Fineline Cube 
Japan-based Astellas Pharma Inc. (TYO: 4503) announced a strategic partnership with Shanghai Pharmaceuticals (SPH; SHA: 601607, HKG: 2607) to commercialize Vyloy (zolbetuximab-clzb) in mainland China. This collaboration marks a significant step in Astellas’ global expansion and underscores its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs in oncology.
Partnership Details
The partnership between Astellas Pharma and Shanghai Pharma is focused on the commercialization of zolbetuximab-clzb, a Claudin 18.2-targeted cytolytic antibody. Financial specifics of the agreement were not disclosed. This collaboration aims to leverage the strengths of both companies to enhance market penetration and patient access in China.
Drug Profile
Zolbetuximab-clzb received approval in China in December 2023 for use in combination with fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy. It is indicated for first-line treatment of locally advanced unresectable or metastatic CLDN 18.2-positive, HER2-negative gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma.
Market Potential
This approval positions zolbetuximab-clzb as a promising therapeutic option for patients with gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma. The collaboration between Astellas and Shanghai Pharma is expected to accelerate the drug’s adoption and improve treatment outcomes for patients in China.-Fineline Info & Tech