Xencor links up with Genentech on novel IL-15 immune activating cytokines

6 February 2019

USA-based biotech Xencor (Nasdaq: XNCR) has entered into a research and license agreement with Genentech, a subsidiary of Swiss pharma giant Roche (ROG: SIX), to develop and commercialize novel interleukin (IL)-15 cytokine therapeutics, including XmAb24306, an IL-15/IL-15Rα cytokine complex engineered with Xencor's bispecific Fc domain and Xtend Fc technology and is Xencor's most advanced preclinical cytokine program.

Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will co-develop XmAb24306 and other potential IL-15 programs, in which the companies will share development costs and profits. Genentech will commercialize medicines worldwide, and Xencor has the option to co-promote in the USA. Additionally, the companies will engage in a two-year research program to discover new IL-15 drug candidates, including ones targeted to specific immune cell populations.

Deal includes $120 million upfront payment to Xencor

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