Orion Corporation and Glykos Finland Oy announced on June 17, 2025, the extension of their research collaboration and licensing agreement for developing next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), expanding their partnership to potentially include up to six ADC programs focused on solid tumor treatment.
Expanded Partnership Doubles ADC Development Pipeline
Under the extended agreement, Orion gains access to Glykos' proprietary ADC technologies with the potential to expand into three additional programs, doubling the scope from the original three ADC programs outlined in the previous agreement. Orion will maintain responsibility for target selection, research, development, and commercialization of the next-generation ADCs, with a continued focus on solid tumors.
The financial structure mirrors the original agreement, with Glykos entitled to milestone payments related to ADC development and product sales, as well as royalties from commercial sales generated by all six ADC programs.
Advanced ADC Technology Platform
Glykos' proprietary technology centers on hydrophilic payload and linker systems designed to address current ADC limitations. According to the company, their platform offers several key advantages including high efficacy, increased tolerability, excellent pharmacokinetics, and optimized conjugation with any monoclonal antibody. The technology aims to expand the therapeutic index while extending survival and enhancing quality of life for cancer patients.
Strategic Collaboration Benefits
"This successful collaboration with Glykos allows us to continue leveraging their advanced ADC technology and underscores our commitment to developing new treatment options for cancer patients," said Professor Outi Vaarala, Executive Vice President, Innovative Medicines and Research & Development at Orion.
Juhani Saarinen, CEO of Glykos, emphasized the strategic value of the partnership: "The extension of our agreement with Orion highlights the potential of our ADC technology. We are excited to expand our collaboration with Orion, whose expertise in cancer therapies and strong clinical development capabilities are crucial for bringing new, effective treatments to cancer patients."
Company Profiles and Market Position
Orion operates as a globally operating Nordic pharmaceutical company with over a century of experience in pharmaceutical development. The company reported net sales of EUR 1,542 million in 2024 and employs approximately 3,700 professionals worldwide. Orion's pharmaceutical R&D focuses primarily on oncology and pain management, with proprietary products treating cancer, neurological diseases, and respiratory diseases.
Glykos specializes exclusively in antibody-drug conjugate development, positioning itself as a technology-focused company dedicated to revolutionizing cancer treatment through its proprietary platform designed to overcome traditional ADC limitations.
