Antibody is directed against a novel proprietary tumour-associated antigen that is expressed on a wide range of solid tumours
Oxford BioMedica announces that its collaboration with Wyeth, on the development of an anti-cancer monoclonal antibody linked to a cytotoxic drug, has reached a key milestone.
Wyeth has exercised its option to be granted an exclusive license to Oxford BioMedica's antibody.
Under the original agreement, announced in January 2001, Wyeth had been given an option to acquire exclusive development and worldwide marketing rights for the antibody for all human cancer indications.
In addition, Wyeth assumes full responsibility for the programme and the costs of development, clinical research, marketing and manufacture of the products that may result from the research effort.
The potential value of the deal for Oxford BioMedica is $24 million, comprising upfront payments, licence option fees and milestone payments. Additionally, Oxford BioMedica will receive royalties on product sales by Wyeth.
Wyeth's exercising of the option triggers a payment and sets a timeline for completion of key preclinical analyses.
Wyeth has rights to develop the Oxford BioMedica antibody as a 'naked' antibody - using the antibody alone - and/or as an antibody-drug conjugate, ie chemically coupled to the cytotoxic molecule calicheamicin.
Wyeth has expertise and proprietary technology in the conjugation of calicheamicin to monoclonal antibodies.
Calicheamicin is the active component of Mylotarg, an antibody conjugate for the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia that was launched in 2000 by Wyeth in the United States.
Oxford BioMedica's antibody is directed against a novel proprietary tumour-associated antigen that is expressed on a wide range of solid tumours.
Products developed under this agreement are therefore expected to be broadly applicable in the treatment of many kinds of cancer. Commenting on the announcement, Professor Alan Kingsman, chief executive of Oxford BioMedica, said: "We are pleased to take this next step along the path towards a very exciting product. There is no better partner than Wyeth for this type of therapy."
