AbbVie extends oncology reach via in-situ CAR-T pact worth $1.4B
04 Jan 2024
Cell TherapyLicense out/inImmunotherapyPhase 1Gene Therapy
AbbVie is delving deeper into the CAR-T space through an alliance with Umoja Biopharma focused on developing in situ CAR-T cell therapy candidates in oncology. Umoja received upfront payments and an equity investment from AbbVie over two separate agreements, and is eligible for up to $1.44 billion in option exercise fees, development and regulatory milestones. It could also pocket additional sales-based milestones and tiered royalties.
"As we continue to strengthen our oncology portfolio, we believe that in situ CAR-T cell therapy represents a paradigm shift utilising genetic medicine concepts," said Jonathon Sedgwick, global head of discovery research at AbbVie.
The agreements leverage Umoja's VivoVec gene-delivery platform, which combines third-generation lentiviral vector gene delivery with a T-cell-targeting and activation surface complex. "This enables T-cells in the body to manufacture their own cancer-fighting CAR-T cells in vivo," the company says.
The first agreement gives AbbVie an exclusive option to license Umoja's CD19-directed CAR-T cell therapy candidates, including its lead programme UB-VV111, which is currently at the preclinical phase for haematologic malignancies. According to the company's website, it anticipates an investigational new drug filing for UB-VV111 in the first half of 2024. Under the second agreement, the companies will develop up to four additional in situ-generated CAR-Ts for discovery targets selected by AbbVie.
AbbVie's CAR-T pipeline in oncology currently involves a partnership with Calibr centred on CLBR001, an experimental treatment that comprises the patient's T-cells and a novel "switchable" CAR, plus the antibody Fab-based biologic SWI019, which targets CD19. Calibr is testing the combination in a Phase I trial for patients with B-cell malignancies.
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