Exelixis and Ryvu Therapeutics have entered into an exclusive license agreement to develop novel targeted therapies using Ryvu’s technology targeting the STING (STimulator of INterferon Genes) protein, the companies said. In total, Ryvu is entitled to receive payments totaling just over $ 400 million.
“The cooperation will combine Ryvu’s patented small molecule STING agonists and the know-how of the company in the field of STING biology with the expertise and resources of Exelixis in the field of antibody engineering, antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology and experience. in the development of cancer therapies and their commercialization. Exelixis intends to include small molecule Ryvu compounds in biotherapeutic targeted therapies such as drug-antibody conjugates. Ryvu will provide expert support and know-how at an early stage of the research, and after each Exelixis clinical candidate is selected, he will be responsible for its development and commercialization. Ryvu will also retain all rights to develop and commercialize its portfolio of standalone small molecule STING agonists, ”the release reads.
Under the terms of the agreement, Ryvu will receive an upfront payment of $ 3 million from Exelixis in exchange for licensing certain rights to the company’s small molecule STING agonists.
Ryvu emphasizes that the amount of revenues that the company will actually receive under the contract will depend on the progress of scientific research and clinical trials, the success of the registration process and the level of revenues from the sale of the potential drug achieved by Exelixis or their partners.
“Gaining access to cutting-edge molecular targets and technologies is a vital part of our strategy to expand our portfolio of biotherapeutic projects, and this collaboration allows us to benefit from Ryvu’s STING protein assets and knowledge,” commented Exelixis Vice President, Scientific Strategy Director and Scientific Director Dr. Peter Lamb, quoted in the release.