Agenus Inc., a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company, has partnered with Zydus Lifesciences, a global healthcare company, in a $141 million deal to expand access to its investigational therapies, botensilimab and balstilimab. This partnership aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of these innovative treatments, bringing new hope to patients with various types of cancer.
Botensilimab is a novel, bispecific antibody that targets two immune checkpoints, CTLA-4 and PD-1, which are known to play a crucial role in cancer progression. Balstilimab, on the other hand, is a monoclonal antibody that targets PD-1. Both therapies have shown promising results in early clinical trials, demonstrating significant anti-tumor activity and a favorable safety profile.
Under the terms of the agreement, Zydus Lifesciences will acquire the rights to develop and commercialize botensilimab and balstilimab in India and other emerging markets. Agenus will retain the rights to develop and commercialize these therapies in the United States, Europe, and other developed markets. The partnership will enable the companies to pool their resources, expertise, and networks to accelerate the development of these therapies and make them more widely available to patients.
The deal includes an upfront payment of $15 million, with additional milestone payments of up to $126 million contingent on the achievement of certain regulatory and commercial milestones. Agenus will also be eligible to receive royalties on net sales of botensilimab and balstilimab in Zydus Lifesciences’ territories.
This partnership is a significant milestone for Agenus, as it marks the company’s entry into emerging markets and demonstrates the value of its innovative pipeline. The collaboration with Zydus Lifesciences will enable Agenus to tap into the growing demand for cancer treatments in these markets, while also gaining access to Zydus Lifesciences’ extensive network and expertise in these regions.
The partnership is also a testament to the growing importance of immuno-oncology therapies in the treatment of cancer. As the field continues to evolve, companies like Agenus and Zydus Lifesciences are at the forefront of developing innovative treatments that have the potential to transform patient outcomes. With this partnership, both companies are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients with cancer, and to contribute to the advancement of cancer research and treatment.