Zymeworks, ImClone Systems to Develop Bi-specific Antibodies

Zymeworks Inc. has entered into a licensing and collaboration agreement with ImClone Systems, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company, to develop an undisclosed number of novel bi-specific antibody oncology therapeutics using Zymeworks’ proprietary Azymetric platform. Bi-specific antibodies have the potential to provide improved outcomes for patients by simultaneously targeting two tumor-associated antigens to induce a synergistic therapeutic response.

Under the terms of the agreement, Zymeworks has granted Lilly and its subsidiaries, a worldwide license to the Azymetric platform to develop and commercialize an undisclosed number of bi-specific therapeutic candidates toward Lilly’s therapeutic targets.

Zymeworks will receive an upfront fee and research support and is eligible to receive research, development, and commercial milestone as well as tiered royalty payments on future product sales. Lilly will have exclusive worldwide commercialization rights to the antibodies derived from the collaboration.

Source: Zymeworks