TenX Biopharma Licenses Zanolimumab from Genmab

TenX Biopharma, Inc. (Philadelphia, PA) has signed a licensing agreement to acquire exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialize zanolimumab (HuMax-CD4) from Genmab A/S (Copenhagen, Denmark).

Zalutumumab is a fully human, high-affinity antibody targeted at the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) and is in clinical development to treat head and neck cancer. EGFr is a receptor molecule found on the surface of many cancer cells. Activation of EGFr by the appropriate growth factor molecule promotes the growth of tumor cells.

Based on data from clinical cancer trials conducted by other biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies using both anti-EGFr antibodies and small-molecule drugs, Genmab believes that an antibody targeting EGFr may be an effective treatment for a variety of cancers, particularly when used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation.

Zalutumumab has been awarded Fast Track status from the FDA covering head and neck cancer patients who have previously failed standard therapies.

Under the terms of the agreement, Genmab will receive an upfront license fee of $4.5 million and will be entitled to milestones and royalties on sales of zanolimumab. TenX will be responsible for all future costs of developing, manufacturing, and commercializing zanolimumab.