Bristol-Myers Squibb has a new clinical research collaboration with Janssen Biotech, Inc. to evaluate the combination of BMS’ Immuno-Oncology (I-O) agent Opdivo and Janssen’s CD38-directed cytolytic antibody Darzalex in Phase Ib/II trials in multiple myeloma and solid tumors including non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer (CRC), triple negative breast cancer and head and neck cancer.

Opdivois a human antibody designed to alleviate immune suppression. Darzalex is a cytolytic antibody believed to induce tumor cell death through multiple immune-mediated mechanisms of action and also demonstrates immunomodulatory activities by targeting immuno-suppressive cells in the tumor microenvironment. The combination may enhance immune-mediated killing of tumors.

“We continue to explore innovative I-O combination therapies to accelerate the discovery of new treatment options that harness the immune system to fight cancer and deliver benefits to patients,” said Fouad Namouni, M.D., head of Development, Oncology, Bristol-Myers Squibb. “Our collaboration with Janssen will leverage the expertise of both organizations to rapidly evolve the science and treatments of both hematologic and solid tumors.”

Opdivowas the first PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor to receive regulatory approval in July 2014, and currently has regulatory approval in 57 countries including the U.S., Japan, and the EU.

This agreement expands the company’s previous clinical research collaboration from July, 2016 to evaluate Opdivo and Janssen’s Live Attenuated Double–Deleted (LADD) Listerial monocytogenes cancer immunotherapy, expressing mesothelin and EGFRvIII (JNJ-64041757), in patients with non-small cell lung cancer.