The companies believe sc28AT, a CD28 antagonist in preclinical development, may block graft rejection as well as the initiation and development of autoimmune diseases, while keeping the body's natural regulatory mechanisms.
Under the terms of the agreement, Debiopharm will invest equity into TcLand and fund the R&D of sc28AT conducted by TcLand up to an investigational new drug (IND) application.
Upon exercising its exclusive option to in-license the molecule, Debiopharm will fully manage and fund further development activities of sc28AT, up to at least completion of phase II before out-licensing to sales and marketing partners. TcLand will also receive milestone payments, as well as royalties based on Debiopharm's revenues from worldwide sales.
“TcLand's portfolio of products opens up new possibilities in personalized medicine,” commented Dr Alain Huriez, chairman and co-founder of TcLand. “This partnership with Debiopharm is a new milestone in the business strategy we have been pursuing since our inception.”