In February 2004, Dynavax and Belgium-based UCB Farchim SA, a subsidiary of UCB SA, established a strategic partnering agreement for the development and commercialization of seasonal allergy products. In December 2004, Dynavax was informed that UCB was reviewing its commitment to the Dynavax collaboration.
The two companies stated that returning full rights to Dynavax is a mutually beneficial resolution of the original collaboration.
The current ongoing phase II/III clinical trial of Dynavax’ AIC immunotherapy for ragweed allergy will be completed as planned and Dynavax will assume financial responsibility for all further clinical, regulatory, manufacturing, and commercial activities related to AIC, and for preclinical development programs in grass and in peanut allergy.
“We are happy that our two companies have been able to end the collaboration reasonably and amicably,” said Dr Dino Dina, president and CEO. “This partnership has advanced our AIC ragweed program to the point where we can proceed actively toward initiating a pivotal phase III program.”