Qpex Biopharma, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to anti-infective therapies, has entered into a multi-product collaboration in China with Brii Biosciences to develop and commercialize Qpex’s portfolio of potentially best-in-class therapies to treat a range of multi-drug resistant gram-negative infections.

“We are thrilled to be working together with a team that shares our vision and dedication to address the global antimicrobial resistance problem,” said Michael Dudley, Pharm.D., president and chief executive officer of Qpex Biopharma. “Brii Bio’s depth of understanding in this field and their unique, cross-regional operating model make them the ideal collaborator in bringing our treatments to this important region where endemic drug-resistance problems can be well addressed by our portfolio.”

The portfolio includes: OMNIvance, an intravenous, beta-lactamase inhibitor (BLI) intended for Acinetobacter species, Enterobacteriaceae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, including carbapenem-resistant strains; ORAvance, an orally-administered BLI combination for the treatment of multi-drug resistant gram-negative infections; and Next-generation polymyxin, an IV, targeted spectrum synthetic polymyxin designed to address highly resistant infections caused by Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter.

OMNIvance and ORAvance use Qpex’s novel ultra-broad-spectrum beta-lactamase inhibitor QPX7728 that inhibits both serine and metallo beta-lactamases, and restores the activity of multiple IV and oral beta-lactam antibiotics against drug-resistant gram-negative pathogens.

“The higher level of antibiotic resistance is a very serious problem in China and the spread of super bugs crossing borders is a recognized global threat,” said Zhi Hong, Ph.D., co-founder and chief executive officer of Brii Bio. “We are delighted to join forces with Qpex to advance its portfolio of medicines that will help address this public health threat and complements our overall infectious disease strategy in China.”

Brii Biosciences will obtain a license to develop, manufacture, and commercialize the portfolio in greater China, which includes Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau and the People’s Republic of China. Brii Biosciences will make an upfront payment, as well as success-based development, regulatory and commercial milestone payments, and share in the costs of a global development program. Qpex Biopharma will also receive tiered royalties on sales in the Brii Bio territory.