AstraZeneca and Alteogen Partner on ALT-B4 Technology

AstraZeneca has established an exclusive licensing agreement with Alteogen, a bio-platform company, to utilize its Hybrozyme platform technology, ALT-B4. This collaboration aims to develop subcutaneous formulations for several of AstraZeneca's oncology treatments. The partnership will allow AstraZeneca to hold global rights to apply this platform to create and commercialize these innovative drug formulations.

The cooperation involves AstraZeneca and its subsidiary, MedImmune, employing the Hybrozyme platform technology. ALT-B4 facilitates the administration of large-volume subcutaneous drugs, which are typically delivered through intravenous infusions. This is achieved by temporarily hydrolyzing hyaluronan in the extracellular matrix, enabling a more convenient delivery method for patients.

Moreover, Alteogen will provide the ALT-B4 therapy for both clinical trials and commercial use. As part of the agreement, Alteogen will receive an upfront payment from AstraZeneca, along with additional financial incentives based on specific developmental, regulatory, and sales milestones. Furthermore, Alteogen is set to earn royalties from the sales of products developed under this collaboration.

Cristian Massacesi, AstraZeneca's Chief Development Officer and Chief Medical Officer for Oncology, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He emphasized the potential of this collaboration to introduce novel subcutaneous treatment options that could significantly enhance cancer care for patients.

According to reports from Fierce Pharma, Alteogen disclosed two separate agreements on the Korea Exchange, totaling $1.35 billion. These include an initial payment of $25 million with potential milestone-related payments reaching up to $725 million. Another agreement involves a $20 million upfront payment with possible milestone-related payments amounting to $580 million.

In another strategic move, AstraZeneca has announced its intent to acquire EsoBiotec in a deal valued at $1 billion. This acquisition is poised to advance AstraZeneca's cell therapy offerings. The agreement comprises an initial payment of $425 million upon the deal's closure, with further payments up to $575 million based on the attainment of specific development and regulatory milestones. This transaction is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Following the acquisition, EsoBiotec will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of AstraZeneca and will continue to be based in Belgium.

Previously, in January 2023, Alteogen entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Sandoz. This agreement focuses on the development of biosimilar products, facilitated by Alteogen's Hybrozyme technology. The agreement with Sandoz marks another significant step for Alteogen in leveraging its Hybrozyme platform to enable the development of advanced therapeutic solutions.