Lonza and Antharis Therapeutics have announced an exclusive, target-specific licensing agreement to develop novel dual-payload ADCs targeting gastrointestinal (GI) cancers.
Antharis Therapeutics leverages advanced proprietary antibody engineering and target biology expertise to develop next-generation monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to address unmet medical needs in oncology.
Through the new agreement, Antharis will combine its antibody engineering and target biology skills with Lonza's clinically validated, site-specific ADC technologies.
Under the terms of the agreement, Antharis will secure rights to Lonza's dual-payload ADC technology platform, which will be combined with Antharis' proprietary discovery and development capabilities to advance highly differentiated, next-generation ADC programmes for multicancer applications.
The collaboration will initially support Antharis’ lead ADC programme (which is about to enter the clinic) targeting GI cancers, reflecting the shared commitment of Antharis and Lonza to developing first-in-class and best-in-class, biology-driven ADCs with the potential to overcome multi-drug resistance and increase overall survival rates.
Jan Vertommen, Vice President of Commercial Development, Advanced Synthesis, Lonza, said: "This licensing agreement highlights an exciting new innovation based on Lonza’s proprietary dual payload technology."
We are excited to combine our platform with Antharis’ deep expertise in antibody engineering and target biology to evaluate its potential to advance next-generation ADCs.
"We are pleased to see this collaboration applied within Antharis’ ambitious and scientifically rigorous ADC programmes."
Raphael Ribeiro Pinaud, CEO of Antharis Therapeutics, added: “This collaboration represents a major strategic milestone for Antharis."
By combining Lonza’s clinically validated ADC technology platform with Antharis’ antibody engineering, target biology and translational expertise, we are well-positioned to advance next-generation dual-payload ADCs.
"We believe this collaboration creates a powerful and highly differentiated approach to oncology drug development.”
According to the agreement, Antharis will take full responsibility for the research, clinical development, manufacturing and commercialisation of the antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).
Lonza, meanwhile, will handle manufacturing of components for its proprietary payload and linker technologies.
Lonza will also be eligible to receive upfront payments, potential milestone payments and royalty payments based on net sales.
