Nurix inks deal with Celgene for next-generation immuno-oncology therapies

Privately-held Nurix has entered into a strategic collaboration with US biotech major Celgene Corp (Nasdaq: CELG) for the discovery, development and commercialization of novel small molecule therapeutics in oncology, inflammation and immunology, including the rapidly evolving field of immuno-oncology.

Nurix will work exclusively with Celgene in these therapeutic areas to advance new therapies that function through the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) to modulate protein homeostasis, a fundamental cellular process controlling protein levels. Mutations in UPS genes are common drivers of many human cancers. In addition, certain UPS genes function in normal physiology encoding key checkpoints in the immune response.

Upfront payment of $150 million for Nurix