AbbVie has formed a collaboration with Argenx, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, to develop and commercialize ARGX-115, Argenx’ preclinical-stage human antibody program targeting the novel immuno-oncology target GARP, a protein believed to contribute to immuno-suppressive effects of T-cells.

“ARGX-115 has been developed in collaboration with an outstanding team of academics at the de Duve Institute/Université Catholique de Louvain through our Innovative Access Program, which gives Argenx rights to novel, exciting targets in our areas of therapeutic focus. We believe ARGX-115 has the potential to advance immuno-oncology by selectively targeting tumor immune escape pathways,” said Tim van Hauwermeiren, chief executive officer, Argenx. “We are proud to develop and commercialize ARGX-115 through collaboration with AbbVie, a global leader in oncology. In addition to the attractive financial elements of this transaction, our shared interest in the commercial potential of ARGX-115, including the right to co-promote the drug in Europe, makes this a highly strategic collaboration for Argenx.”

“The ability to modulate the body’s own immune system to fight cancer is one of the most promising scientific advancements over the past decade,” said Anil Singhal, vice president, early oncology development, AbbVie. “We believe that the ARGX-115 program is a unique opportunity to explore the potential to block certain immune-suppressive pathways that allow cancers to grow.”

Argenx will conduct research and development through IND-enabling studies. Upon successful completion of these studies, AbbVie may exercise an exclusive option to license the ARGX-115 program and assume responsibility for further clinical development and commercialization. Argenx will receive an upfront payment of $40 million from AbbVie for the exclusive option to license ARGX-115 and near-term preclinical milestones of $20 million. Argenx is also eligible to receive additional development, regulatory and commercial payments up to $625 million upon achievement of pre-determined milestones as well as tiered, up to double-digit royalties on net sales upon commercialization.

In addition to the ARGX-115 program, and upon reaching a predetermined preclinical stage milestone, AbbVie will fund further GARP-related research by Argenx for an initial period of two years. AbbVie will have the right to license additional therapeutic programs emerging from this research, for which Argenx could receive associated milestone and royalty payments.