Ipsen and Biomunex Partner on First-in-Class MAIT Cell Engager for Solid Tumors in $610M Deal
Partnership:
Ipsen and Biomunex have entered into an exclusive global licensing agreement for BMX-502, a pre-clinical novel T cell engager (TCE) with first-in-class potential in immuno-oncology12.
BMX-502 Details:
BMX-502 is a bispecific antibody that engages and activates Mucosal-Associated Invariant T cells (MAIT cells) and targets the GPC3 tumor antigen to kill cancer cells. GPC3 is highly expressed across several cancer types12.
MAIT Cell Advantage:
MAIT cells are present throughout the body, particularly in mucosal and barrier tissues, offering a promising approach to treating tumors in these tissues. MAIT engagers aim to overcome limitations of current pan-T cell engager therapies, such as activation of regulatory T cells and cytokine release syndrome12.
Deal Terms:
Biomunex will complete the IND-enabling package, while Ipsen will assume responsibility for Phase I preparation activities, including submission of the Investigational New Drug (IND) application, and all subsequent clinical-development and global commercialization activities. Biomunex is eligible to receive up to $610 million, including upfront, contingent upon successful development, regulatory and commercial milestones, in addition to tiered global royalties on sales123.
Potential Impact:
The partnership aims to harness the next-generation of T cell engagers to overcome treatment challenges, including dose-limiting toxicity, and bring transformational new medicines to people living with solid tumors around the world12.
Sources:
1. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/12/03/2990251/0/en/Ipsen-and-Biomunex-announce-exclusive-global-licensing-agreement-for-first-in-class-MAIT-cell-engager-in-immuno-oncology.html
2. https://www.ipsen.com/press-releases/ipsen-and-biomunex-announce-exclusive-global-licensing-agreement-for-first-in-class-mait-cell-engager-in-immuno-oncology-2990251/
3. https://endpts.com/ipsen-secures-rights-to-t-cell-engager-in-610m-pact-with-biomunex/