Research & Development
German biotechnology company 3B Pharmaceuticals (3BP) and Switzerland-based Novartis have announced that they have entered into a Global Exclusive Licensing Agreement regarding fibroblast activation protein (FAP)-targeting peptide technology.
FAP is a promising theranostic target that expresses across the majority of cancers. 3BP has created FAP-2286, the first peptide-targeted radioligand therapy (PT-RLT) targeting FAP to enter clinical development with its respective imaging agent. FAP-2286 is made up of two elements: a targeting peptide that binds to FAP, and a site that can be used to attach radioactive isotopes for imaging and therapeutic use. It is currently being tested in the phase 1 LuMIERE trial.
Novartis will have exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialise therapeutic and imaging applications for 3BP’s FAP-targeting technology, including FAP-2286. 3BP will receive an initial payment of $40m, as well as up to $425m in development, regulatory and commercial milestone payments and tiered royalties on net sales.
Dr Ulrich Reineke MD of 3BP, stated: “We have focused for many years on developing a peptide technology platform to create innovative radiopharmaceuticals and this agreement validates the value of 3BP’s platform. This partnership will allow us to continue to expand our core competencies and dedicate resources to the further development of our pipeline.”