Launch of MoonLake Immunotherapeutics with in-license of Merck's IL-17 nanobody

Newly-established Swiss biotech MoonLake Immunotherapeutics has in-licensed the tri-specific nanobody sonelokimab (M1095/ALX 0761) from Germany’s Merck KGaA (MRK: DE).

MoonLake has been set up by an international team of immunology specialists to leverage revolutionary nanobody (single-domain antibody) technology in multiple indications. It will accelerate the clinical development of sonelokimab, building on robust clinical data generated by Merck and by Ablynx, a Sanofi (Euronext: SAN) company, which discovered the molecule. No financial terms of the accord are disclosed.

Sonelokimab has clinically demonstrated potential to drive disease modification in dermatology and rheumatology patients. Sonelokimab is a tri-specific, balanced interleukin (IL)-17A/F inhibitor with an albumin binding site, which has the potential to facilitate deep tissue penetration in the skin and joints.