MedImmune, the global biologics R&D arm of AstraZeneca, and 3M Drug Delivery Systems, have entered research collaboration to develop next generation toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists that activate innate immune cells and enhance the visibility of cancer tumors.
 
MedImmune has in-licensed 3M’s MEDI9197, a novel TLR 7/8 dual agonist entering Phase I development to explore the safety and tolerability of MEDI9197 as a potential treatment for patients with solid tumors.
 
MEDI9197 has been designed to activate a broad range of innate immune cells through targeting of both TLR 7 and 8, leading to a more robust adaptive immune response. The drug will also be the first dual TLR7and 8 agonist administered directly into a tumor in a clinical setting.
 
MedImmune is responsible for the clinical development and 3M will continue to develop additional TLR agonists in oncology and other therapy areas, and MedImmune will have exclusive rights to conduct research on new molecules. 3M will receive an upfront payment and development-related milestones for MEDI9197 in addition to research funding. 3M retains the rights to 3M-052 in certain topical applications and use in vaccine admixtures.
 
Dr. Yong-Jun Liu, senior vice president, R&D and head of Research, MedImmune, said, “We’re pleased to collaborate with 3M Drug Delivery Systems to explore TLR agonists as monotherapy and in combination with our internal immuno-oncology portfolio. By targeting tumor antigen presentation, MEDI9197 adds a unique mechanism of immune activation to our growing portfolio and supports our strategy of maximizing anti-tumor immunity through scientifically rational combinations.”
 
Cindy Kent, president and general manager, 3M Drug Delivery Systems, said, “Everyone here at 3M’s Drug Delivery Systems is very excited to collaborate with MedImmune, a world leader in cancer immunotherapy. Our companies continue to work well together on this groundbreaking program and we’re very pleased with the progression of MEDI9197 into the clinic. The acceptance of the IND marks an important step in exploring this unique TLR 7/8 agonist intratumoral immunotherapy approach in patients with solid tumors.”