Chugai will use Xencor’s XmAb technology on its antibodies against a cancer target. The XmAb technology consists of a suite of engineered antibody Fc domains that can be applied to any antibody to control the recruitment of the immune system’s effector functions and to greatly increase antibody-mediated tumor killing.
Under the terms of the agreement, Xencor will receive technology access and license fees, and is eligible to receive additional license fees, milestones and royalties in the event Chugai advances candidates into development.
“We are excited that Chugai is partnering with us to apply our XmAb technology in its antibody discovery efforts,” said Dr Harry Stylli, president and CEO of Xencor. “The Chugai collaboration furthers our strategy of licensing the XmAb technology to multiple partners for specific targets while retaining rights for the internal development of a portfolio of next-generation antibodies.”