Simcere Zaiming, a subsidiary of Simcere Pharmaceutical Group (2096.HK), announced Sept. 1 that it has entered an exclusive global licensing agreement with Roche for the development and commercialization of SIM0660, a tri-specific antibody targeting CD79a, CD19, and CD3 with potential across B-cell-mediated diseases.
Under the agreement, Roche acquires exclusive global rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize SIM0660. Simcere Zaiming is eligible to receive up to $1.530 billion in total payments, including a $75 million upfront sum. The company is also entitled to tiered royalties of up to double digits on future net sales.
SIM0660 was developed by Simcere Zaiming using its proprietary T-cell engager poly-specific antibody technology. The molecule combines a CD3-engaging arm with binding domains targeting two B-cell antigens, CD79a and CD19, designed to induce potent T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity while limiting cytokine release. Its dual-targeting approach to CD79a and CD19 is considered potentially first-in-class and is intended to provide broad coverage across B-cell-mediated diseases, including patients previously treated with CD20- or CD19-directed therapies. SIM0660 also holds therapeutic potential for B-cell-mediated autoimmune diseases, where targeted depletion of pathogenic B cells may offer clinical benefit.
"This agreement with Simcere Zaiming reflects our commitment to partnering with innovative companies to advance and deliver new therapeutic options for patients in need," said Boris L. Zaïtra, Head of Corporate Business Development at Roche.
Simcere Zaiming has now completed six out-licensing transactions through its parent, Simcere Pharmaceutical Group, with potential aggregate total consideration exceeding US$6.1 billion. The company has launched several innovative products in China, including Enzeshu, COSELA, Enweida, Endostar, and Enlituo.
