Bristol Myers Squibb Terminates Collaboration with Immatics, Returning Rights to Bispecific Molecule IMA401
Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) has terminated its $150 million partnership with Immatics, relinquishing full rights to develop IMA401, a bispecific molecule. The collaboration, initiated in 2021 with a $150 million upfront payment and potential milestone payments of $770 million, was ended due to BMS's portfolio prioritization. As a result, Immatics now has complete control over IMA401, following its recent presentation of positive Phase I data at the European Society of Medical Oncology meeting in Barcelona. The study exhibited a 29% objective response rate and 53% disease control rate in heavily pre-treated patients with solid tumors. Immatics plans to refine the dosing schedule for IMA401 and explore its combination with checkpoint inhibitors for improved patient outcomes. Additionally, the company has other drugs in its pipeline, including IMA402 and IMA203.
Key Takeaways
- BMS concludes $150 million collaboration with Immatics, returning rights to bispecific molecule IMA401.
- Immatics commits to independent development of IMA401 post BMS's portfolio prioritization.
- Phase I data reveals a 29% objective response rate for IMA401 in solid tumor patients.
- Immatics aims to optimize dosing schedule from two weeks to once every four weeks.
- IMA401 targets MAGEA4 and MAGEA8, proteins overexpressed in tumor conditions.
Analysis
The termination of the collaboration places financial and developmental responsibilities on Immatics, necessitating independent funding. While Immatics gains immediate autonomy over IMA401, it also faces heightened financial pressures. Successful development could establish Immatics as a leader in bispecific therapies, attracting investors and partnerships. Conversely, BMS's restructuring indicates a potential impact on its pipeline diversity, prompting market reactions that may influence stock prices and investor confidence in both companies.
Did You Know?
- Bispecific Molecule: IMA401 is a bispecific molecule that targets MAGEA4 and MAGEA8 proteins, overexpressed in certain tumor conditions, enhancing the drug's efficacy by targeting multiple pathways or cell types involved in disease.
- Checkpoint Inhibitors: Immatics plans to combine IMA401 with checkpoint inhibitors, which enhance the immune system's ability to attack cancer cells.
- Objective Response Rate (ORR): The Phase I data for IMA401 exhibited a 29% ORR, signifying a substantial reduction in the size of tumors for nearly 30% of patients.