By Fineline Cube 
China’s Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd. (HKG: 2315) announced that it has signed an evaluation agreement with Merck KGaA (ETR: MRK) to explore the use of antibody‑conjugated lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) in delivering nucleic‑acid therapeutics.
Deal Highlights
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology Source | Biocytogen will provide fully‑human antibodies derived from its proprietary RenMice platform. |
| Evaluation Scope | Merck will assess the feasibility of incorporating these antibodies into antibody‑conjugated LNP formulations. |
| Option Rights | Merck receives an exclusive option to acquire rights to selected antibody assets. |
| Compensation | Biocytogen will receive upfront fee payments, sales royalties, and sublicense royalties upon successful commercialization. |
Strategic Significance
- Targeted Delivery – Antibody‑conjugated LNPs promise cell‑specific delivery of siRNA, mRNA, and CRISPR‑based therapeutics, reducing off‑target effects.
- Platform Synergy – Biocytogen’s RenMice platform delivers high‑affinity, fully‑human antibodies, while Merck brings deep expertise in lipid‑nanoparticle formulation and global commercialization.
- Revenue Streams – The royalty structure aligns incentives, with Biocytogen poised to capture a share of future sales and sublicensing opportunities.
Next Steps
- Technical Evaluation – Merck will conduct in‑vitro and in‑vivo studies to determine antibody‑LNP conjugation efficiency and therapeutic efficacy.
- Option Exercise – Should the partnership prove viable, Merck can exercise its exclusive option to license the selected antibodies.
- Commercialization Roadmap – Joint roadmap will outline milestones, regulatory strategy, and potential market launch timelines.-Fineline Info & Tech