Ipsen and Biomunex Pharmaceuticals have entered into a global licensing agreement for BMX-502, the first MAIT cell therapy identified for its potential as a cancer therapeutic.
BMX-502 is a bispecific antibody that targets and activates mucosal-associated invariant T-cells (MAIT cells), which exhibit their effect through the GPC3 tumour antigen.
The immunotherapy is designed to treat tumours in mucosal and barrier tissues, and Ipsen hopes to progress the bispecific through the IND application process.
The potential of MAIT engagers in immuno-oncology
BMX-502, which was developed through Biomunex's BiXAb technology, selectively engages MAIT cells.
According to the company, MAIT engagers could offer as a great alternative to current pan-T cell engager therapies by preventing the activation of Treg cells and the onset of cytokine release syndrome.
Through their method of action, Biomunex believes that MAIT engagers could provide a larger therapeutic window than classic pan-T cell engagers.
Ipsen's SVP and Head of Early Development, Mary Jan Hinrichs, commented: “As we continue to grow Ipsen’s pipeline using a science-first approach to partnering across the ecosystem, we believe BMX-502 is a strong addition with first-in-class potential in solid tumors,”
“This new MAIT-engager program will complement our existing TCE portfolio as we harness the next-generation of T-cell engagers to overcome treatment challenges, including dose-limiting toxicity, to bring transformational new medicines to people living with solid tumors around the world.”
“We are convinced that our MAIT engagers will represent a new step forward in the development of disruptive immuno-therapies for the treatment of cancer. We look forward to initiating and supporting the development of BMX-502 alongside Ipsen,” added President and CEO of Biomunex, Dr Pierre-Emmanuel Gerard.
Under the terms of the agreement, Biomunex will be responsible for completing the IND-enabling package, at which point Ipsen will take over for Phase I preparation — which includes submitting the IND application.
Through this deal, Biomunex could receive up to USD $610 million depending on the meeting of development, regulatory and commercial milestones.