GSK has agreed to acquire China-based Chimagen Biosciences’ CMG1A46, a clinical-stage autoimmune diseases therapy, in a deal worth up to $850m.
CMG1A46 is an investigational dual CD19 and CD20-targeted T cell-engager (TCE). It is designed to deeply deplete uncontrolled B cells in autoimmune diseases.
The deal expands the British drug maker’s immunology pipeline and strengthens GSK’s portfolio in lupus treatment and in addressing the underlying causes of autoimmune diseases.
GSK plans to develop and commercialise this therapy for B cell-driven autoimmune diseases. Key focuses include systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN). There is potential to expand into related autoimmune conditions.
In preclinical studies, CMG1A46 has demonstrated rapid and deep B cell depletion in both the bloodstream and tissues, GSK said. This dual targeting of CD19 and CD20 could result in more durable responses in patients.
The asset is currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials for leukaemia and lymphoma in the US and China. The drug maker plans to initiate a Phase 1 trial for lupus in 2025.
GSK chief scientific officer Tony Wood said: “Through our work in systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis, we increasingly understand the underlying drivers of B cell-driven diseases.
“As a novel therapeutic option directed at deep B cell depletion, CMG1A46 offers exciting potential which we are pleased to take forward to address unmet need in lupus and related autoimmune conditions.”
Under this agreement, GSK will pay $300m upfront for full global rights to CMG1A46.
In addition, Chimagen Biosciences could receive up to $550m in success-based development and commercial milestone payments.
Chimagen Biosciences CEO Zhenhao Zhou said: “We are excited by the potential of CMG1A46 to improve the lives of patients suffering from autoimmune conditions and grateful to have GSK accelerate that vision.
“This agreement provides further validation of our proprietary T cell-engager platform, and we are eager to continue our mission of developing novel multi-specific antibody therapeutics.”
The agreement is subject to standard conditions, including necessary regulatory clearances.
GSK already has Benlysta (belimumab) for active LN treatment. It secured the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 2020. Two years later, it was cleared for children aged five to 17 years.
