AbbVie forms two oncology-focused collaborations with CytomX and argenx

AbbVie and CytomX will jointly develop and commercialize probody drug conjugates directed against CD71, which is highly expressed several solid and hematologic cancers.

Under the deal, CytomX will lead pre-clinical and early clinical development, while AbbVie will be responsible for later development and commercialization.

The two companies will share worldwide late-stage development costs. AbbVie will pay CytomX $30 m upfront and up to $470m in milestone payments.

AbbVie will also secure similar rights on up to two additional targets, which would also include milestone and royalty payments.

The other collaboration with argenx includes the development and commercialization of ARGX-115, a preclinical-stage human antibody program targeting an immuno-oncology protein called GARP, thought to contribute to the immuno-suppressive effect of T cells.

argenx will receive an upfront payment of $40m from AbbVie for the exclusive option to license ARGX-115.

AbbVie agreed to pay Argenx up to $645m in additional payments if certain goals are met.

AbbVie will also fund additional GARP-related research by argenx for an initial period of two years.

The company will have the right to license further therapeutic programs emerging from the research, for which argenx may receive milestone and royalty payments.

AbbVie has recently signed a five-year collaboration agreement with the University of Chicago to enhance the pace of discovery and advance medical research in oncology at both organizations.

Image: AbbVie Corporate Headquarters. Photo: courtesy of AbbVie Inc.