Bristol Myers Squibb and immunotherapy developer Janux Therapeutics have announced a collaboration and exclusive worldwide license agreement.  

Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will develop an undisclosed, novel, tumour-activated therapeutic targeting a validated solid tumour antigen expressed across several human cancer types. 

Janux may receive up to $50 million in upfront and near-term milestone payments, and is eligible to receive development, regulatory and commercial milestones up to approximately $800 million. Janux is also entitled to tiered royalties on global product sales. 

“This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Janux, validating the strength of our tumour-activated platforms and expanding our reach in solid tumour oncology,” said David Campbell, President and CEO of Janux. “By combining Janux’s innovative technology with Bristol Myers Squibb’s deep expertise in clinical development and global commercialisation, we aim to accelerate the delivery of transformative therapies to patients with difficult-to-treat cancers.” 

As part of the collaboration, Janux will complete preclinical development up to IND submission. Bristol Myers Squibb will hold the IND and be responsible for subsequent development and global commercialisation, with Janux remaining actively involved, supporting Bristol Myers Squibb through completion of the first Phase I clinical study. 

Janux has two tumour activated T Cell engager (TRACTr) therapeutic candidates in clinical trials. The first, targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), is in development for prostate cancer. The second, targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), is being developed for colorectal carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, non-small cell lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma, small cell lung cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and triple-negative breast cancer. 

Diana Turner, Deputy Editor, DDW