Research & Development

Chinese biotechnology company LaNova Medicines and UK-based pharma company AstraZeneca have announced that they have signed a global exclusive licence agreement for a preclinical stage antibody drug conjugate (ADC).

LM-305 targets G protein-coupled receptor, class C, group 5, member D (GPRC5D). It consists of an anti-GRPC5D monoclonal antibody, a protease-degradable linker and a cytotoxic payload monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). It is indicated for use in patients with multiple myeloma.

Within the agreement, AstraZeneca will be granted full exclusive global licence to research, develop and commercialise LM-305. LaNova will be eligible for upfront and near-term payments of up to $55m, as well as additional development and commercial milestone payments of up to $545m and tiered royalties on net sales.

Dr Crystal Qin, founder, chairman and CEO of LaNova Medicines commented: “LaNova Medicines has a strong focus on discovering and developing innovative medicines in the ADC and immuno-oncology fields. We’re excited to reach this agreement with AstraZeneca. With the potential to become a first-in-class GPRC5D-directed ADC for multiple myeloma, LM-305 exemplifies our innovative and robust platform for ADC development. This agreement is further recognition of our exceptional pipeline assets and R&D capabilities. We are confident that AstraZeneca is the ideal company to advance LM-305 for the betterment of patients globally.”

Nina Shah, global head of multiple myeloma, Haematology R&D at AstraZeneca, said: “We are pleased to have the opportunity to advance the development of LM-305, a novel GPRC5D-targeting ADC, as a potential new treatment option for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. LM-305 advances our leadership in ADCs and enriches our growing Haematology pipeline, helping us deliver against our broader ambition to transform clinical outcomes for patients living with blood cancers.”