AbbVie and Simcere Zaiming announced an option to license agreement to develop SIM0500, a novel trispecific antibody candidate for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. The investigational drug is currently in Phase 1 clinical trials in both China and the U.S.
SIM0500 is designed to target GPRC5D, BCMA, and CD3, and was developed using Simcere Zaiming's T-cell engager polyspecific antibody technology platform. The molecule features a low affinity/high target-activating CD3 engaging arm and binding sites for the two tumor antigens: G-Protein-coupled receptor class 5 member D (GPRC5D) and B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA). Preclinical data have demonstrated strong T cell cytotoxicity against multiple myeloma cells.
Financial Terms of the Agreement
Under the terms of the agreement, Simcere Zaiming will receive an upfront payment from AbbVie. Additionally, Simcere Zaiming is eligible to receive option fees and milestone payments of up to $1.055 billion, as well as tiered royalties on net sales outside of the Greater China territory. AbbVie will receive tiered royalties on net sales within the Greater China territory.
Addressing Unmet Needs in Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma remains a challenging hematologic malignancy with significant unmet medical needs, particularly in the relapsed or refractory setting. Mariana Cota Stirner, M.D., Ph.D., vice president, therapeutic area head for hematology at AbbVie, stated, "As a leader in hematologic malignancies, AbbVie is committed to advancing innovative treatments for complex cancers like multiple myeloma through our relentless R&D efforts and collaborations. We look forward to partnering with Simcere Zaiming, to advance this novel trispecific antibody, which has the potential to help address significant unmet medical needs for people living with multiple myeloma."
Simcere Zaiming's Perspective
Renhong Tang, PhD, CEO of Simcere Zaiming, commented, "SIM0500 is developed via Simcere Zaiming's proprietary T-cell engager platform. We are excited to partner with AbbVie on this novel drug candidate and look forward to working together to advance the clinical development of SIM0500."
