Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) Co., Ltd. (SHA: 600196, HKG: 2196) announced a licensing agreement with ApolloBio Corp., securing exclusive commercialization rights for VGX-3100 in Greater China (mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan). Fosun Pharma will also assume responsibility for local manufacturing of the therapeutic DNA drug.
Deal Structure & Strategic Terms
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Licensor | ApolloBio Corp. (NEEQ: 430187) |
| Licensee | Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (SHA: 600196, HKG: 2196) |
| Asset | VGX-3100 (therapeutic DNA drug) |
| Territory | Greater China (exclusive) |
| Rights | Commercialization + local manufacturing |
| Indication | Cervical high‑grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL, CIN2/3) from HPV16/18 |
| Development Stage | Phase III clinical trials in China |
| Mechanism | DNA plasmids targeting HPV16/18 E6/E7 proteins, activating cellular and humoral immunity |
Drug Profile & Innovation
- Therapeutic DNA Approach: VGX-3100 delivers plasmids encoding HPV16/18 E6/E7 antigens, triggering immune‑mediated clearance of virus and infected cells
- First‑in‑Class Potential: No approved therapeutic DNA vaccine for cervical precancerous lesions in China; addresses unmet need in HPV16/18‑related disease
- Clinical Progress: Phase III trials underway, targeting HSIL (CIN2/3) patients
- Manufacturing Advantage: Fosun’s local production capability reduces supply chain risk and accelerates market access upon approval
Market Impact & Commercial Outlook
- China HPV Market: Cervical cancer screening programs and rising HPV awareness drive a ¥10 billion+ (US$1.4 billion) therapeutic vaccine market by 2030
- Patient Population: Estimated 1.5 million women in Greater China have HSIL from HPV16/18, representing a sizable target population
- Competitive Landscape: Competes with surgical interventions (LEEP) and observation; VGX-3100 offers non‑invasive alternative with curative intent
- Revenue Potential: Analysts project ¥3–5 billion (US$420–700 million) peak annual sales if approved, based on broad screening coverage and vaccination gaps
- Strategic Value: Strengthens Fosun’s position in oncology prevention and innovative vaccines, complementing its existing women’s health franchise
- Next Steps: Phase III data readout expected 2027; NDA submission targeted for 2028
Forward‑Looking Statements
This brief contains forward‑looking statements regarding clinical development timelines, regulatory pathways, and revenue projections for VGX-3100. Actual results may differ due to clinical trial outcomes, competitive dynamics, and NMPA review processes.-Fineline Info & Tech
