Astellas and Elpiscience Collaborate on Bispecific Macrophage Engager for Cancer Research

Astellas and Elpiscience have announced a collaboration to develop novel bi-specific macrophage engagers using Elpiscience's BiME platform. This agreement, potentially worth up to $1.7 billion, aims to revolutionize cancer treatment by targeting tumor-associated macrophages.

This pact, centering on the development of novel bi-specific macrophage engagers, including ES019, marks a significant advancement in immuno-oncology therapies. The two companies, Elpiscience Biopharma and Astellas, will collaboratively conduct early-stage research. Elpiscience offers Astellas the option to add up to two more programs to the collaboration. If exercised, Astellas will gain exclusive rights to research, develop, manufacture, and commercialize products from these joint programs.

The BiME Platform

At the core of this collaboration is Elpiscience's innovative Bispecific Macrophage Engager Platform (BiME®). This platform, based on anti-tumor associated antigen (TAA) and anti-signal-regulatory protein α (SIRPα) bispecific antibodies, represents a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment. It uniquely activates Tumor Associated Macrophage (TAM) phagocytosis, specifically targeting TAA-expressing tumor cells. Importantly, BiME effectively neutralizes the CD47-SIRPα 'don't eat me' signaling, a tactic used by tumors to avoid immune system destruction."

Tackling the Tumor Microenvironment

TAMs, prevalent in the Tumor Microenvironment (TME) of various cancers, often predict poor prognosis and resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Elpiscience's programs from the BiME platform aim to redefine cancer treatment by modulating TAMs and altering the TME, offering new hope to patients unresponsive to existing therapies.

Financial Implications and Milestones

The financial contours of the deal are substantial. Elpiscience will receive an initial sum of up to US $37 million, encompassing upfront payment and license option fees, along with additional research funding from Astellas. Post-option exercise, Elpiscience stands to gain over US $1.7 billion in potential future payments, linked to developmental, regulatory, and commercial milestones, plus royalties on net sales of licensed products.

Dr. Darren Ji, MD, Ph.D., Chairman and CEO of Elpiscience, expressed enthusiasm about partnering with Astellas, a trailblazer in innovative medicines. He underscored the potential of BiME to revolutionize clinical practices, especially for tumors heavily infiltrated by tumor-associated macrophages where current treatments fall short. "BiME® innovated at Elpiscience represents a paradigm shift from the conventional cell engagers dominated by T cells."

Adam Pearson, Chief Strategy Officer at Astellas, highlighted the company's dedication to advancing cancer treatments, with Immuno-Oncology being a pivotal aspect of their R&D strategy. He anticipates this collaboration will synergize the cutting-edge research efforts of both companies, ultimately leading to novel cancer treatments.