MorphoSys, AG (Munich, Germany) and biopharmaceutical company Xencor, Inc. (Monrovia, CA) have signed a worldwide exclusive license and collaboration agreement for an antibody in Phase 1 clinical development.
MorphoSys, AG (Munich, Germany) and biopharmaceutical company Xencor, Inc. (Monrovia, CA) have signed a worldwide exclusive license and collaboration agreement for an antibody in Phase 1 clinical development. The agreement provides MorphoSys with an exclusive worldwide license to XmAb5574, a high potency monoclonal antibody developed by Xencor for the treatment of B-cell malignancies.
XmAb5574, which will be renamed MOR208, is a humanized anti-CD19 monoclonal antibody for the treatment of B-cell malignancies. It possesses significantly enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), thus improving a key mechanism for killing tumor cells and offers the potential for enhanced efficacy compared to traditional antibodies for cancer treatment. In preclinical studies, XmAb5574 was well tolerated at various dose levels, elicited immediate and sustained B-cell depletion, and showed strong anti-tumor potency, anti-proliferative, and apoptotic activity.
As part of the agreement, the companies will collaborate on the Phase 1 trial in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in the US. Xencor will continue to carry the costs under its development plan and MorphoSys will be solely responsible for further clinical development. Xencor will receive an upfront payment of $13 million, and will be eligible to receive development-, regulatory- and commercialization-related milestone payments and tiered royalties based on product sales.
B-cell malignancies, such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, CLL, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia afflict >150,000 patients each year. The target is expressed more broadly and earlier in B-cell development than CD20, the target of the marketed cancer drug Rituxan, therefore potentially allowing for an even broader use of XmAb5574 as compared to Rituxan.
The Future of Cleanroom Construction: How Hybrid Solutions are Changing the Game
May 14th 2025Imagine a world where cleanroom facilities—essential for pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, and high-tech industries—are built with unparalleled speed, precision, and efficiency. That world is here, thanks to the hybrid construction approach. By blending traditional stick-built methods with modular and prefabricated solutions, companies are overcoming the limitations of conventional construction while ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations. In this interview, we explore how hybrid cleanroom construction is transforming the industry, offering faster project timelines, improved quality control, and significant cost advantages. Join us as we delve into this game-changing approach with industry experts who are leading the charge in revolutionizing cleanroom infrastructure.
Mastering Antibody-Drug Conjugates
December 19th 2024In this episode, we explore BIOVECTRA’s capabilities in antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) manufacturing, from complex conjugation chemistry to synthesis of highly potent payloads. We’ll also showcase how BIOVECTRA’s extensive experience in complex chemistries and specialized small molecule manufacturing gives them a unique perspective, strengthening their approach to ADC production and ensuring clients receive custom solutions across all project stages.