Ipsen and Biomunex Pharmaceuticals have entered into an exclusive global licensing agreement for BMX-502, a promising bispecific antibody designed to target and activate Mucosal-Associated Invariant T cells (MAIT cells) to combat cancer. BMX-502 is specifically engineered to target the GPC3 tumor antigen, which is highly expressed across various cancer types, offering a novel therapeutic approach to treat tumors, particularly those located in mucosal and barrier tissues.
Innovative Mechanism Targeting MAIT Cells
BMX-502, developed using Biomunex’s proprietary BiXAb technology, is designed to engage and activate MAIT cells, a subset of cytotoxic T cells. These cells play a crucial role in the immune system’s ability to recognize and fight cancer cells. MAIT cells are naturally abundant throughout the body, particularly in mucosal tissues, which are common sites for tumor development. By activating MAIT cells and directing them to target GPC3, BMX-502 aims to eliminate cancer cells more efficiently, especially those in challenging tissues like mucosal and barrier areas.
GPC3 is a clinically validated tumor-associated antigen that is found on the surface of several types of cancer cells, making it an ideal target for cancer immunotherapy. The novel approach of engaging MAIT cells provides a unique advantage over current cancer treatments that rely on pan-T cell engagers, which can activate regulatory T cells and lead to adverse side effects such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS). These side effects are often difficult to manage, creating significant challenges for both patients and healthcare systems. By selectively engaging MAIT cells, BMX-502 could help mitigate some of these issues, offering a broader therapeutic window with potentially fewer side effects.
Strengthening Ipsen’s Oncology Portfolio
Mary Jane Hinrichs, Senior Vice President and Head of Early Development at Ipsen, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “As we continue to grow Ipsen’s pipeline using a science-first approach to partnering, we believe BMX-502 is a strong addition with first-in-class potential in solid tumors. This new MAIT-engager program will complement our existing T cell engager portfolio, helping to overcome treatment challenges such as dose-limiting toxicity. We aim to bring transformational new medicines to people living with solid tumors globally.”
The partnership highlights Ipsen’s ongoing efforts to expand its oncology pipeline and harness the power of next-generation T cell engagers. By incorporating BMX-502, Ipsen hopes to address the unmet needs of cancer patients and improve treatment outcomes for those with solid tumors.
Biomunex’s Role in the Agreement
Dr. Pierre-Emmanuel Gerard, founder, President, and CEO of Biomunex, emphasized the significance of the partnership with Ipsen, stating, “This agreement with Ipsen is proof of the relevance of the MAIT-engager approach. Biomunex is the first company to recognize the high therapeutic potential of MAIT cells in cancer treatment. Our best-in-class BiXAb platform enables us to rapidly generate promising bispecific antibodies, and we are excited to support the development of BMX-502 alongside Ipsen.”
Biomunex’s BiXAb platform has been pivotal in the development of BMX-502, demonstrating its ability to create innovative therapeutic candidates. The company is confident that MAIT engagers like BMX-502 will be a breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy, advancing the next generation of treatments.
Terms of the Agreement
Under the terms of the agreement, Biomunex will complete the Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling package, preparing BMX-502 for clinical trials. Ipsen will assume responsibility for preparing Phase I clinical studies, including submitting the IND application, and will oversee all subsequent clinical development and global commercialization activities. Biomunex is eligible for up to $610 million, including an upfront payment and contingent upon successful development, regulatory, and commercial milestones. Additionally, Biomunex will receive tiered royalties on global sales of BMX-502.
Future of MAIT-Engager Immunotherapy
The collaboration between Ipsen and Biomunex marks a significant step forward in the development of targeted cancer therapies, with the potential to revolutionize the way tumors are treated, particularly in difficult-to-target areas such as mucosal and barrier tissues. MAIT-engagers like BMX-502 represent an exciting new frontier in immuno-oncology, offering hope for more effective and less toxic treatments for patients with solid tumors. As the clinical development progresses, both companies aim to bring BMX-502 to market, expanding treatment options for cancer patients worldwide and advancing the field of cancer immunotherapy.
