Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals and Radiance Biopharma have signed an exclusive option and licence agreement for a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate (BsADC).

The partnership aims to advance the development, manufacture and commercialisation of a first-in-class fully human anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)/tumour-associated calcium signal transducer 2 (TROP2) BsADC for cancer treatments globally.

Radiance Biopharma will have the option to license Biocytogen’s ADC, targeting tumour-associated antigens HER2 and TROP2.

These antigens are frequently expressed and co-expressed by cancer types including non-small-cell lung cancer, breast and gastric cancers.

Radiance managing director and chairman of the board Marc Lippman stated: “We are excited to enter into this exclusive option and licence agreement with Biocytogen for a novel human anti-HER2 and Trop2 bispecific antibody-drug conjugate.

“Preclinical data from in vitro and in vivo assays of this BsADC shows promising high potency of anti-tumour activities in leading tumour indications. We are eager to work with Biocytogen to move the product to the clinic to benefit patients.”

Upon Radiance exercising the option, Biocytogen will receive an option fee, licensing fee and payments related to development and commercial milestones. The deal also includes single-digit royalties on net sales.

Biocytogen president and CEO Dr Yuelei Shen stated: “We are excited to collaborate with Radiance, a strong team with extensive experience in drug development, to develop a leading proprietary fully human bispecfic antibody-drug conjugate.

“We are optimistic that the combination of our strength in BsADC discovery and the extensive experience of Radiance’s team will help expedite the commercialisation of this dual-targeting BsADC.”

In December 2023, Biocytogen signed an antibody agreement with Spanish biotech company Ona Therapeutics for the development of ADCs for solid tumours.