Avenzo Therapeutics Secures Global License for ADC Innovation

Avenzo Therapeutics and DualityBio Join Forces

Avenzo Therapeutics, a progressive biotechnology company focused on innovative oncology treatments, recently struck an exclusive licensing agreement with Duality Biotherapeutics. This partnership aims to leverage Avenzo's capabilities to develop, manufacture, and commercially launch the promising EGFR/HER3 antibody-drug conjugate known as AVZO-1418/DB-1418. This development marks a significant stride in the fight against solid tumors by targeting both the EGFR and HER3 pathways.

The Significance of EGFR and HER3 in Solid Tumors

EGFR and HER3 are crucial components in the pathway of various solid tumors, seen frequently in cancer types such as lung cancer, breast cancer, and head and neck cancers. By targeting these two factors, AVZO-1418/DB-1418 aims to provide a more effective treatment option for patients. Duality's cutting-edge design for this drug candidate holds great promise in enhancing patient response rates.

Avenue for Innovation

Athena Countouriotis, M.D., Co-founder, President, and CEO of Avenzo Therapeutics, noted, "Our partnership with DualityBio underscores our commitment to developing advanced therapeutic options for challenging cancer types. With the dual targeting nature of AVZO-1418/DB-1418, we are optimistic about its potential to deliver clinical benefits across a diverse range of tumors. We eagerly anticipate the next phases of this collaboration as we fast-track this drug into clinical trials."

Financial Aspects of the Agreement

This licensing agreement comes with significant financial implications as well. DualityBio is set to receive an upfront payment of $50 million, with the potential to earn up to $1.15 billion in milestone payments spanning development, regulatory, and commercial phases. Additionally, tiered royalties linked to sales in Avenzo's territories emphasize the financial potential for both entities as they advance this promising drug candidate.

Understanding AVZO-1418/DB-1418

AVZO-1418/DB-1418 represents a groundbreaking approach using a dual-targeting mechanism that incorporates a topoisomerase-1 inhibitor to enhance efficacy. Initial preclinical studies show that this drug candidate exhibits a higher binding affinity to tumor cells, showcasing its advantages over existing therapies, especially in EGFR-resistant cases. The on-going IND-enabling studies indicate plans to transition this drug into human clinical trials soon.

About Avenzo Therapeutics

Avenzo Therapeutics is passionately focused on creating next-generation oncology therapies. Their lead drug candidate, AVZO-021, also speaks to their commitment to oncology treatment innovations. As a highly selective CDK2 inhibitor, AVZO-021 is currently undergoing Phase 1 studies for advanced solid tumors and in combination treatments for HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer.

The Path Ahead for DualityBio

Duality Biotherapeutics is equally committed to redefining cancer treatment with their ADC technologies. The company has developed numerous ADC platforms with extensive global IP rights, supporting multiple clinical-stage candidates across several countries. Their dedication to advancing cancer therapy continues with their innovative pipelines, which could include collaborations that extend their reach into marketable treatment options for patients.

Conclusion: A New Hope for Cancer Therapies

The collaboration between Avenzo Therapeutics and DualityBio encapsulates a significant moment in oncology advancement. With the potential of the AVZO-1418/DB-1418 drug candidate shining brightly, both companies are working diligently to overcome today's cancer treatment barriers. As the first-in-human clinical study approaches, optimism builds for a new avenue of recovery for patients facing solid tumors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is AVZO-1418/DB-1418?

AVZO-1418/DB-1418 is a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate targeting EGFR and HER3, aimed at treating various solid tumors.

What companies are collaborating on this project?

Avenzo Therapeutics and Duality Biotherapeutics are collaborating to develop AVZO-1418/DB-1418.

How much funding is involved in the licensing agreement?

DualityBio will receive an upfront payment of $50 million and has the potential to earn up to $1.15 billion through milestones.

What is the significance of targeting EGFR and HER3?

Targeting both EGFR and HER3 is crucial for treating solid tumors effectively, as these proteins are often co-expressed in various cancers.

When are the human clinical trials expected to begin?

The first-in-human clinical trials for AVZO-1418/DB-1418 are anticipated to commence soon, as IND-enabling studies progress.

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