#USA #San Diego #cancer therapy #Avenzo Therapeutics #DualityBio

Avenzo and DualityBio's Exclusive License Agreement

In a significant advancement in cancer therapy, Avenzo Therapeutics, a company focused on innovative oncology solutions, has announced a groundbreaking exclusive license agreement with Duality Biotherapeutics. This partnership allows Avenzo to exclusively develop and commercialize a promising EGFR/HER3 antibody-drug conjugate, known as AVZO-1418/DB-1418, on a global scale, while excluding Greater China. The strategic collaboration signifies a combined commitment to push the boundaries of cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes.

The Significance of AVZO-1418/DB-1418

The significance of AVZO-1418/DB-1418 lies in its dual-targeting mechanism aimed at EGFR and HER3, both of which are prevalent in various solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, and head and neck cancer. As cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, the need for advanced treatment options is paramount. The mechanism of action of AVZO-1418/DB-1418, a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate, enables it to deliver therapeutic agents directly to cancer cells, thereby targeting cancer more effectively.

Preclinical studies have shown that AVZO-1418/DB-1418 exhibits a significantly higher binding affinity to tumor cells compared to existing treatments. The potential to address cases where tumors are resistant to other therapies highlights the promise this innovative drug holds. Avenzo plans to initiate first-in-human clinical trials for AVZO-1418/DB-1418 within the year, marking a crucial step in the development pipeline.

Financial Aspects of the Agreement

Under the terms of the agreement, DualityBio stands to receive an upfront payment of $50 million. Additionally, the deal outlines potential financial rewards that could accumulate up to approximately $1.15 billion contingent upon development, regulatory approvals, and commercial successes. DualityBio will also benefit from tiered royalties on sales made by Avenzo within its territory. Such substantial financial backing exemplifies the confidence both companies have in the transformative potential of AVZO-1418/DB-1418.

Expert Insights

Athena Countouriotis, M.D., Co-founder, President, and CEO of Avenzo Therapeutics, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, ‘By targeting both EGFR and HER3 with its differentiated design, AVZO-1418/DB-1418 has the potential to provide clinical benefit across multiple solid tumor types.’ Dr. Countouriotis’s optimism reflects a focused ambition to enhance cancer treatment options on a global level.

Dr. John Zhu, Founder and CEO of DualityBio, echoed this sentiment by stating, ‘DualityBio and Avenzo share a common purpose in developing the next generation of oncology therapies that address underserved therapeutic areas.’ His remarks reflect a shared goal of not only innovating cancer treatments but also serving patients who have limited therapeutic options available.

Looking Ahead

As IND-enabling studies move ahead, both companies are placing their hopes on AVZO-1418/DB-1418 to emerge as a frontrunner in cancer therapies. The collaborative spirit between Avenzo and DualityBio is paving the way for potentially revolutionary healthcare solutions that could redefine patient care in oncology. The medical community eagerly anticipates the upcoming clinical trials, which could ultimately benefit countless individuals battling cancer.

With both Avenzo and DualityBio committed to pushing the envelope of cancer treatment, the collaboration stands as a testament to the increased focus on dedicated research and development within the biotechnology sector. As the world looks on, there is hope that innovative therapies like AVZO-1418/DB-1418 will become vital components in the ongoing fight against cancer.