Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, has exercised its final option for an exclusive target under a collaboration agreement with Affimed N.V. to develop and commercialize novel NK cell engager-based immunotherapeutics generated from Affimed’s ROCKplatform to treat multiple cancers. The target selection triggers an undisclosed milestone payment from Genentech.

“The designation of the final target marks another milestone for the collaboration, which brings   together Genentech’s deep understanding of cancer immunology with Affimed’s expertise in drug discovery and development of innate cell engagers,” said Dr. Adi Hoess, Chief Executive Officer of Affimed. “We look forward to achieving further progress toward generating novel therapies that leverage the full potential of the innate immune system to help people living with cancer.”

Under the strategic, multi-target collaboration with Genentech entered in August 2018, Affimed applies its fit-for-purpose Redirected Optimized Cell Killing (ROCK) platform and engineering expertise to discover and advance NK cell engager-based immunotherapeutics against certain targets selected by Genentech. Genentech is responsible for clinical development and commercialization worldwide. Affimed received $96 million in funding from Genentech in 4Q18 and may be eligible to receive an additional $5 billion in development, regulatory and commercial milestones, plus royalties on sales of any developed products.