GRIT, Quangang unveil IL-2 T-cell therapy partnership

Shanghai Grit Biotechnology (GRIT), a clinical-stage cell therapy company, has entered into a strategic partnership with Quangang Pharmaceutical (Quangang) aimed at advancing T-cell therapy for solid tumor patients in China. This collaboration seeks to enhance research and development capabilities, focusing on creating a globally standardized and locally affordable version of Interleukin-2 (IL-2) for the treatment of solid tumors.

Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is an immune-regulating cytokine critical for T-cell therapy, used in various solid tumor treatments. The partnership centers on expanding the indications of Quanqi (125SER) IL-2 products, which are already employed in treating conditions such as renal cell carcinoma, breast cancer, melanoma, bladder cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, lymphoma, and lung cancer.

Both GRIT and Quangang are committed to producing a domestically manufactured alternative to the internationally recognized IL-2 cytokine. This localized version aims to be more affordable for Chinese patients, thereby increasing accessibility to advanced T-cell treatments. GRIT leverages its extensive experience in T-cell therapy to fast-track the development and commercialization of these cell therapy products through this partnership.

GRIT’s non-gene-engineered tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) program, GT101, is currently in Phase II pivotal trials, with plans to file for a biologics license application (BLA) by 2025. This program represents a significant step towards providing advanced cell therapy options for patients with solid tumors.

The collaboration between GRIT and Quangang is poised to broaden the therapeutic landscape for solid tumor patients in China. Their joint efforts aim not only to develop a high-standard IL-2 treatment but also to make it financially accessible to a wider patient base. The anticipated outcome is a more effective and inclusive treatment regime for Chinese patients battling various solid tumors.

In 2023, GRIT secured over $60 million (approximately 436.72 million yuan) in a Series B funding round to support its pipeline programs. This financing round was led by China International Capital Corporation and included investments from Qianhai Ark, Liando Group, Yuanhe Capital, and HeFangTian Venture Partnership. This influx of funds will support GRIT’s ongoing research and development initiatives, furthering their mission to innovate and enhance cell-based therapies.

The partnership aligns with GRIT and Quangang’s shared vision of increasing the availability and efficacy of T-cell therapies for solid tumor patients. By developing a standard IL-2 product that meets global benchmarks while being cost-effective, the collaboration stands to make a significant impact on the treatment landscape for Chinese patients.

This concerted effort exemplifies the growing trend in the biotech industry where strategic alliances aim to localize advanced treatments, making them more accessible and affordable. Through this partnership, GRIT and Quangang are set to advance the frontiers of T-cell therapy, potentially transforming therapeutic approaches for solid tumors in China.

By focusing on both global standards and local affordability, GRIT and Quangang are pioneering a new pathway in the treatment of solid tumors, promising enhanced patient outcomes and broader access to cutting-edge therapies.