Bristol-Myers Taps Halozyme To Gain I/O Edge Inks $105M
Bristol-Myers Squibb joins AbbVie Eli Lilly Johnson & Johnson Pfizer and Roche on the list of companies to work with San Diego-based firm Halozyme.
The collaboration will see BMS develop up to 11 immuno-oncology drugs for subcutaneous administration using Halozyme’s ENHANZE technology platform. BMS will also make up to $160m in milestone payments for each candidate developed using the therapeutics’ large-volume biologics delivery platform.
Under the terms of the deal, HALO will receive $30M upfront, up to $160M in milestones and tiered mid-single-digit royalties on net sales. PD-1 is at the top of the list of 11 targets in the deal, of course, with “multiple” additional programs in the deal. And the pact includes plenty of options for more in the first 5 years.
The Enhanze technology is based on Halozyme’s patented recombinant human hyaluronidase enzyme (rHuPH20) that removes traditional limitations on the volume of biologics that can be delivered subcutaneously.
Hyaluronan is a glycosaminoglycan or chain of natural sugars in the body that will help to disperse and absorb other injected therapeutic drugs. To assist in the dispersion and absorption of other injected therapeutic drugs, rHuPH20 is used to temporarily
reduce hyaluronan, which is a glycosaminoglycan or chain of natural sugars in the body. Enhanze technology will allow delivering large volume injectable medications, including medications that are currently delivered intravenously, through subcutaneous delivery.BMS chief commercial officer Murdo Gordon said: “We are excited to partner with Halozyme to pursue potential new approaches to how our medicines are delivered to patients.
“Through our work with Halozyme, we hope to improve the patient treatment experience by developing flexible and convenient treatment delivery options.”
Halozyme president and CEO Dr Helen Torley said: “Bristol-Myers Squibb has one of the industry’s most advanced and extensive immuno-oncology portfolios with a clear commitment to patient-centered innovation.”
