Roche introduced nearly $1 billion in viral immunotherapy

On October 20, Roche entered into a strategic collaboration and licensing agreement with Hookipa Pharma to jointly develop HB-700 and a second undisclosed novel arenavirus immunotherapy
for KRAS-mutated cancers.

Under the terms of the agreement, Roche will make an upfront payment of $25 million to Hookipa, which is also eligible for milestone payments for the development and commercialization of HB-700 and other product candidates totaling approximately $930 million, as well as high-single- to double-digit tiered royalties
.

IN ADDITION, ROCHE HAS THE RIGHT TO EXPAND THE INITIAL COLLABORATION BY ADDING AN ADDITIONAL PRODUCT CANDIDATE, AFTER WHICH HOOKIPA WILL RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL $15 MILLION IN PAYMENTS
ON OPTION EXERCISES.

KRAS is a gene
that acts as a switch for cell growth.
When a gene is mutated or wrong, the cell can get out of control
.
KRAS mutations are one of the
most common mutations that cause cancer.

HB-700 is an investigational arenavirus immunotherapy designed to treat KRAS-mutated lung, colorectal, pancreatic and other cancers
.
HB-700 is also a replication dual-vector therapy for the most common KRAS mutations (G12D, G12V, G12R, G12C, and G13D) and has a stronger effect
than a single mutation inhibitor.

Through the collaboration, HOOKIPA will conduct HB-700 research and early clinical development
.
Upon completion of the Phase Ib trial, Roche will undertake the subsequent development and commercialization process
.

"WE ARE EXCITED TO PARTNER WITH HOOKIPA TO APPLY THEIR ARENAVIRUS TECHNOLOGY
.
This technique has clinically demonstrated the ability to induce potent antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses, symbolizing a new potential immunotherapy
.
James Sabry, Global Head of Partnerships at Roche Pharmaceuticals, said: "This collaboration further strengthens Roche's leadership in
oncology.
We will actively promote this innovative platform to provide more options
for patients with KRAS mutant cancer, as well as patients with other potential cancer types.
" ”

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