#United States #Boston #AVEO Oncology #HiberCell #HC-5404

AVEO Oncology and HiberCell's Exclusive Collaboration

In a significant advancement for cancer treatment, AVEO Oncology, a subsidiary of LG Chem, has officially teamed up with HiberCell, Inc. The partnership focuses on the development of HC-5404, an innovative PERK inhibitor that has shown promise in preclinical studies. The aim is to evaluate the compound both alone and in combination with AVEO's established drug, FOTIVDA (tivozanib), which is designed to treat relapsed or refractory renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Background of the Collaboration

This exclusive agreement, announced on November 4, 2025, highlights the commitment of both companies to improve treatment options for RCC patients. HiberCell's HC-5404 targets the PERK protein kinase, part of the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR), crucial for cancer cell survival in hostile tumor microenvironments. By inhibiting PERK, HC-5404 is expected to enhance the anticancer efficacy when used alongside VEGFR inhibitors like FOTIVDA.

FOTIVDA itself, approved by the FDA in March 2021, is an oral medication that targets vascular endothelial growth factor receptors, making it a pivotal choice in the treatment of advanced RCC with its focus on patients who have undergone multiple prior therapies. Preclinical evidence suggests that the combination of HC-5404 and FOTIVDA may yield superior results compared to either therapy alone.

The Agreement Details

Under the terms established in this collaboration, AVEO will lead the initial clinical development of HC-5404. The first phase includes a Phase 2 clinical trial wherein AVEO has the option to secure an exclusive license for the compound's development, manufacturing, and commercialization worldwide. This decision will be contingent upon an undisclosed option fee, and if exercised, HiberCell will receive milestone payments as well as royalties based on global sales.

Michael P. Bailey, President and CEO of AVEO, expressed enthusiasm regarding the collaboration, stating that HC-5404's potential paired with VEGFR TKIs underscores the company's strategy to create robust treatment options for RCC patients. Bailey emphasized that this partnership not only enhances AVEO's existing portfolio but also opens up opportunities for further oncology research and development across various cancer types.

HiberCell's Perspective

From HiberCell's side, Steven Gillis, Ph.D., the Chairman and acting CEO, echoed a similar sentiment by highlighting the expertise AVEO brings in the oncology field, particularly relating to RCC. He reinforced the collaboration’s importance, stating it could lay the groundwork for assessing HC-5404 and tivozanib's combined efficacy on a broader scale in other cancers beyond RCC.

Significance for Patients

This agreement marks an inspiring step forward in the quest for effective cancer treatments, particularly for patients struggling with aggressive forms of RCC. By merging the innovative approaches of both companies, it aims to pave the way for therapies that can tackle the multifaceted challenges of cancer—including metastatic progression and drug resistance.

Conclusion

Overall, the partnership between AVEO Oncology and HiberCell signals a promising horizon in oncology, combining cutting-edge research to potentially improve survival rates and quality of life for patients battling renal cell carcinoma. With initial studies indicating the positive effects of HC-5404 in synergy with FOTIVDA, stakeholders await further developments as the trial progresses. This collaboration exemplifies a shared commitment to addressing critical unmet needs in cancer care, marking an exciting chapter in biopharmaceutical innovation.