ArriVent expands ADC portfolio with $615M Alphamab deal

ArriVent BioPharma has entered into a partnership with Jiangsu Alphamab Biopharmaceuticals, focusing on developing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for cancer. This collaboration marks the second agreement for the Pennsylvania-based biotech centered on this innovative modality. Alphamab will leverage its advanced linker-payload platform and glycan-conjugation technology to identify and develop ADCs for ArriVent. Under the terms of the agreement, ArriVent gains exclusive rights to develop and commercialize these ADC candidates outside of China. In return, Alphamab will receive up to $615.5 million, which includes an upfront payment and potential milestone payments, along with tiered royalties.

Bing Yao, CEO of ArriVent, expressed that the deal significantly enhances their pipeline and aligns with their strategic model of sourcing and developing potential first-in-class and best-in-class candidates from around the world. The partnership not only strengthens ArriVent’s portfolio but also has the potential to introduce multiple innovative new ADC programs.

The agreement will allow ArriVent to bolster its pipeline, which currently comprises mainly the EGFR inhibitor firmonertinib. Firmonertinib, an orally administered small molecule, is undergoing three clinical trials targeting various forms of EGFR-mutated non-small-cell lung cancers.

This collaboration with Alphamab is not ArriVent's first foray into ADCs. The company is also engaged in a partnership with Aarvik Therapeutics to develop a therapy aimed at solid tumors. This therapy aims to offer enhanced activity and safety compared to single target bivalent ADCs. A lead candidate from this partnership is anticipated to be selected by late 2024 or early 2025.

ArriVent made its public debut earlier in January, successfully raising $175 million through its IPO, marking the second IPO of the year. This significant influx of capital is expected to fuel its development programs, including its ADC endeavors.

In summary, the collaboration between ArriVent BioPharma and Jiangsu Alphamab Biopharmaceuticals represents a strategic move to expand ArriVent’s oncology pipeline with cutting-edge ADC technology. The partnership aims to bring innovative cancer therapies to the market, leveraging both companies’ strengths and expertise.