Oxford BioTherapeutics Ltd., a clinical stage oncology company with a pipeline of immuno-oncology (IO) and antibody-drug conjugate (ADC)-based therapies and Kite, a Gilead Company, have announced that they have entered into a research collaboration to evaluate five novel targets for a number of hematologic and solid tumor indications.
Through this collaboration, OBT will validate five novel oncology drug targets, previously identified using OBT’s OGAP® discovery platform, and generate antibodies against these targets. Kite and Gilead will have the exclusive right to develop and commercialize therapies based on these targets or antibodies.
“As the leader in cell therapy, we are committed to continuing to bring its transformative potential to more patients with different kinds of cancers,” said Mert Aktar, Vice President of Corporate Development and Strategy at Kite. “We’re excited to partner with Oxford BioTherapeutics to help accelerate this research by identifying new targets in solid tumors and hematologic malignancies where novel approaches may help improve outcomes.”
Dr. Christian Rohlff, OBT’s Chief Executive Officer said, “Selecting the right target is fundamental for the successful development of first-in-class cell therapies. OBT’s state-of-the-art platforms have refined this approach to address difficult-to-treat cancers. This has resulted in several candidates entering clinical development either by OBT or its development partners. We are delighted that Kite, the global leader in cell therapy, has recognized the potential of OBT’s OGAP® discovery platform and antibody capabilities through this partnership. On behalf of patients in urgent need of novel therapies, we look forward to working with Kite to advance cell therapies for the treatment of hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.”
Under the terms of the agreement, OBT will receive an upfront payment and will be eligible to receive additional payments based on achievement of certain discovery, clinical and regulatory milestones, as well as royalties on future potential sales.
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