Ichnos Sciences, a prominent clinical-stage biotechnology firm specializing in pioneering multispecific antibodies for oncology and under the ownership of Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, has announced a momentous worldwide licensing agreement. The deal sees Ichnos licensing its prized OX40 antagonist monoclonal antibody portfolio to Astria Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical powerhouse dedicated to developing cutting-edge therapies for rare allergic and immunological diseases.

Astria Assumes Full Control of OX40 Antibody Program

Under the terms of this exclusive agreement, Astria Therapeutics takes on complete responsibility for the global development and commercialization of the licensed therapeutic program across all indications. In exchange for this collaboration, Ichnos is set to receive a staggering sum of up to $320 million, spanning upfront, development, regulatory, and sales milestone payments, coupled with low double-digit royalties. Additionally, Ichnos has graciously allowed Astria to access its investigational drug substance and drug product stocks at normalized costs, streamlining the development process.

Telazorlimab: A Promising Solution for Inflammatory Diseases

Central to this partnership is Telazorlimab, an innovative, humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody meticulously designed to target OX40 on T-cells—an integral player in inflammation and immune-related disorders. Telazorlimab’s potential impact spans a range of inflammatory conditions, including atopic dermatitis (AD). Astria’s ambitious plan involves refining Telazorlimab through affinity maturation and applying YTE half-life extension technology to create a safe, effective, and infrequently administered treatment for AD patients.

Ichnos Eyes Oncology Expansion

Commenting on this strategic alliance, Dr. Cyril Konto, President and CEO of Ichnos, expressed his excitement, saying, “As Ichnos continues to grow as a biotechnology company, this agreement enables our team to focus on advancing our robust pipeline of clinical-stage multispecific antibodies in oncology generated by our proprietary BEAT platform. We’re also committed to furthering our NK-cell engaging programs for solid tumors.” Dr. Konto also highlighted the significance of completing Phase 2b with Telazorlimab in atopic dermatitis, potentially introducing a groundbreaking therapeutic class for this condition.

Astria’s Vision for OX40 Program

Jill Milne, co-founder and CEO of Astria Therapeutics, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “We are looking forward to building on the foundational work that Ichnos has done with their OX40 portfolio. We believe that by using Ichnos’ affinity-matured next-generation monoclonal antibody OX40 antagonist and applying YTE half-life extension technology, we have the potential to deliver a best-in-class profile for atopic dermatitis patients—one that we think can be safe, effective, and long-acting. In addition to OX40 antagonism already being a clinically validated mechanism in atopic dermatitis, we also are excited about the opportunity for potential expansion into additional indications.”

This exclusive licensing agreement marks a pivotal moment in the biopharmaceutical landscape, promising transformative solutions for patients battling inflammatory and immune diseases. Ichnos Sciences and Astria Therapeutics are poised to bring about a new era of hope and innovation in the field of healthcare.

  Astria Therapeutics, Atopic dermatitis, Dr. Cyril Konto, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Ichnos Sciences, Jill Milne, OX40, Telazorlimab