SK Biopharm partners with Full-Life for radiopharmaceutical debut

SK Biopharmaceuticals has entered a significant agreement with Full-Life Technologies, valued at $571.5 million. This exclusive global licensing deal grants SK Biopharm access to Full-Life's radionuclide drug conjugate (RDC) candidate, FL-091. This collaboration represents SK Biopharm’s first venture into the radiopharmaceutical industry, a strategic move aligned with its ambition to grow into a major biotech player.

CEO Donghoon Lee emphasized that this year, SK Biopharm plans to reveal and implement various strategies for radiopharmaceutical therapy. The company is keen on advancing clinical development and commercialization efforts shortly. The agreement, publicized on Tuesday, ensures SK Biopharm worldwide rights concerning the research, development, production, and commercialization of FL-091 and its associated compounds.

FL-091 is a small-molecule radioligand vector engineered to deliver precise radiotherapy to neurotensin receptor 1-positive (NTSR1+) solid tumors. These include colorectal, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. In preclinical studies, FL-091 has shown promising results in biodistribution, binding affinity to NTSR1, and antitumor activity. Full-Life Technologies has also stated that an alpha-emitter therapy, 225Ac-FL-091, is under development.

The agreement further provides SK Biopharm the first negotiation rights to license additional pre-selected RDC programs from Full-Life. In return, Full-Life will receive an undisclosed upfront payment and further compensation tied to development and commercial milestones, as well as sales royalties.