In a strategic move to advance cancer therapeutics, AbbVie and Simcere Zaiming, a subsidiary of Simcere Pharmaceutical Group, have announced an option to license agreement for the development of SIM0500.
This investigational drug is currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials in both China and the United States, targeting patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (MM).
SIM0500 is a humanized trispecific antibody designed to engage T-cells by targeting GPRC5D, BCMA, and CD3. Developed independently by Simcere Zaiming using their proprietary T-cell engager polyspecific antibody technology platform, this molecule features a low affinity/high target-activating CD3 engaging arm and binding sites for two tumor antigens: G-Protein-coupled receptor class 5 member D (GPRC5D) and B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA). Preliminary studies have demonstrated that SIM0500 effectively induces T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity against MM cells by leveraging a combination of antitumor effects.
Under the terms of the agreement, Simcere Zaiming will receive an upfront payment from AbbVie and is eligible to receive option fees and milestone payments totaling up to $1.055 billion, as well as tiered royalties on net sales outside of the Greater China territory.
AbbVie will also receive tiered royalties on net sales within the Greater China territory.
This partnership aligns with AbbVie's strategic focus on expanding its oncology pipeline, especially following the loss of patent protection for its blockbuster arthritis drug, Humira.
In 2024, AbbVie invested over $20 billion in acquiring neuroscience, cancer, and Alzheimer's drug developers, underscoring its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs through innovative therapies.
Multiple myeloma is a complex and often treatment-resistant blood cancer. The development of SIM0500 represents a promising advancement in the pursuit of more effective therapies for patients battling this challenging disease.
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