T-cell engagers (TCEs) represent an innovative approach in immunotherapy, with applications and values highlighted in the following areas:
Applications in Cancer Treatment
TCEs effectively target and kill cancer cells by simultaneously binding to tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and CD3 on T-cells. In hematological malignancies, TCE drugs targeting antigens such as CD19, CD20, and BCMA have been commercialized and shown significant efficacy. Additionally, TCE drugs are expanding into the fields of solid tumors and autoimmune diseases. For instance, Amgen’s Tarlatamab (CD3/DLL3) has been marketed in the United States for the treatment of extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC).
Innovations in Immunotherapy
TCEs offer a novel immunotherapy method that induces a more potent and sustained immune response by directly recruiting and activating T-cells. Globally, there are over 400 TCE drug pipelines under research, with the number increasing annually, and approximately 50% have entered clinical stages.
Development of Multispecific TCEs
Beyond bispecific TCEs, trispecific and multispecific TCE products are also in development, enhancing therapeutic efficacy and selectivity.
Licensing Agreements for TCEs
Recently, there has been a flurry of licensing activities in the TCE field, demonstrating the interest of major pharmaceutical companies in the next generation of TCE products and reflecting the potential and market value of TCEs in cancer treatment:
- Candid Therapeutic’s Deals: On December 16, Candid Therapeutic announced three R&D collaboration deals concerning TCEs, involving Harbour Biomed’s wholly-owned subsidiary Nona Biosciences, Epimab Biotherapeutics, and Ab Studio, with a total potential transaction value exceeding $1.32 billion.
- Curon Biopharma and Merck’s Deal: Tongrun Biotech reached a CD3/CD19 bispecific TCE deal with Merck, with a total transaction value of $1.3 billion, including an upfront payment of $700 million and up to $600 million in milestone payments.
- Chimagen Bio and GSK’s Deal: Enmu Bio licensed its dual-targeting CD19 and CD20 T-cell engager (TCE) CMG1A46 to GSK, with an upfront payment of $300 million and a potential total deal value of $850 million.
- Vir Biotechnology and Sanofi’s Deal: Vir Biotechnology entered into a global exclusive licensing agreement with Sanofi, granting Vir global exclusive rights to three clinical-stage TCEs targeting different cancer antigens, currently in Phase I clinical studies or preparing to begin trials.
- AbbVie and EvolveImmune Therapeutics’ Deal: AbbVie collaborated with EvolveImmune Therapeutics to co-develop oncology drugs using its proprietary TCE platform, with a transaction value of $1.465 billion.
These licensing agreements not only showcase the vibrancy of the TCE field but also reflect the significance and market potential of TCEs in cancer treatment. With the development and commercialization of more TCE products, this field is expected to continue growing.
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