Kelonia Therapeutics announced a strategic collaboration with Johnson & Johnson (J&J, NYSE: JNJ) to develop in vivo CAR-T cell therapies using Kelonia’s proprietary iGPS platform, with J&J gaining access to the lead candidate KLN-1010 for multiple myeloma.
Deal Structure
Item
Detail
Partners
Kelonia Therapeutics & Johnson & Johnson
Technology
iGPS (in vivo Gene Positioning System) platform
Focus
In vivo CAR-T therapies for J&J priority targets
Lead Candidate
KLN-1010 (in vivo BCMA CAR-T)
J&J’s Role
Advance molecules through development and commercialization
Financial Terms
Not disclosed; includes upfront, milestones, and royalties
Sustained for 3 months; longest patient remains MRD negative
Lymphodepletion
Not required
Leukapheresis
Not required
Safety
No DLTs; No Grade ≥3 CRS or ICANS
Technology Profile
Mechanism: In vivo CAR-T delivery via viral vector directly into patient, eliminating ex vivo cell manufacturing
Advantages:Improved accessibility, reduced treatment burden, no hospitalization for cell processing
Innovation: Potential to revolutionize traditional CAR-T paradigm (which requires 2‑4 week manufacturing)
Market Impact & Outlook
Metric
Value
Multiple Myeloma Market
$28 billion globally (2024)
Relapsed/Refractory Patients
~50,000 annually in US/EU
Traditional CAR-T Sales
$2.5 billion (2024)
In Vivo CAR-T Potential
$5‑8 billion peak if approved (addressing 3‑4× more patients due to accessibility)
Competitive Edge: First in vivo BCMA CAR-T with clinical data; J&J partnership provides scale
Next Catalyst: Phase 1 expansion data expected Q2 2026
Forward‑Looking Statements This brief contains forward‑looking statements regarding the Kelonia‑J&J collaboration, KLN-1010 development, and market potential. Actual results may differ materially due to risks including clinical trial outcomes, manufacturing scale‑up, and competitive dynamics.-Fineline Info & Tech