IGN311, a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting the Lewis Y antigen, is being developed by Aphton’s subsidiary, Igeneon AG, as a potential new therapy for the treatment of cancer. Lewis Y is a tumor-related antigen that is expressed in up to 90% of all epithelial cancers, including breast, colon, gastric, and pancreatic cancers.
Under the agreements, Igeneon has granted Celltrion a license to commercialize IGN311 in certain Asian countries, including Japan. In return, Igeneon will receive milestone payments and royalties from Celltrion. In addition, Celltrion will provide development and manufacturing services related to the optimization and upscaling of IGN311 and will produce material for further clinical development. Celltrion will have the option to manufacture IGN311 for global commercialization.
“We are excited about the close cooperation of both companies and about the progress made in the comprehensive work program laid out in these agreements to advance the development of IGN311,” commented Dr Patrick Mooney, chairman and CEO of Aphton. “This deal validates the concept of our IGN311 anti-Lewis Y antibody, and it allows us to advance the development of this product candidate with a limited impact to our cash flow.”