Genmab, a biotechnology company specializing in antibody therapeutics for the treatment of cancer, has entered into a worldwide license and option agreement with Janssen Biotech, part of Johnson & Johnson, to develop and commercialize HexaBody-CD38, a human CD38 monoclonal antibody incorporating Genmab’s proprietary HexaBody technology, which is designed to increase the potency of antibodies.

Under the terms of the agreement, Genmab will collaborate exclusively with Janssen on HexaBody-CD38 and fund research and development activities until completion of clinical proof-of-concept studies in multiple myeloma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

Based on the results from those studies, Janssen may exercise the option to receive a worldwide license to develop, manufacture, and commercialize HexaBody-CD38. Should this occur, Janssen would pay Genmab a $150-million option exercise fee and up to $125 million in development milestones, in addition to a flat royalty rate of 20% on sales of the antibody until a specified time in 2031, followed by 13-20% of tiered royalties on sales after that.

Should Janssen not exercise its option, Genmab would be allowed to continue to develop and commercialize HexaBody-CD38 for Darzalex-resistant patients and in all other indications except those multiple myeloma or amyloidosis indications where Darzalex is either approved or is being actively developed. Darzalex (daratumumab), an antibody by Genmab and Janssen, is approved for the treatment of certain multiple myeloma indications. The new agreement builds on a previous collaboration between Genmab and Janssen for Darzalex.

The new agreement is a result of preclinical research on CD38 targeting concepts conducted by Genmab.

Source: Genmab