arGEN-X expands antibody deal with Shire; initiates ARGX-110 trial in cancer

Netherlands and Belgium-based preclinical stage biotech firm arGEN-X, specialized in the discovery and development of highly differentiated human monoclonal antibody products, is broadening its therapeutic antibody collaboration with Ireland-headquartered Shire (LSE: SHP).

Initiated early last year (The Pharma Letter March 1, 2012), the existing alliance is focused on arGEN-X using its SIMPLE Antibody discovery platform to create novel human antibody therapeutics addressing diverse rare and unmet diseases being pursued by Shire.

Building on the success of the partnership to date, the companies have now instigated an additional discovery program, addressing a new therapeutic opportunity. arGEN-X continues to be responsible for all antibody discovery and certain preclinical activities, while Shire will conduct all disease-relevant preclinical work, as well as clinical and commercial development of therapeutic antibody products. arGEN-X receives research funding and success-based payments, as well as milestones and royalties on products developed under the collaboration. Further financial terms were not disclosed.