CANbridge to develop and commercialize Apogenix’s APG101 in glioblastoma for China

APG101 is a fully-human fusion protein that inhibits the CD95 ligand, a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family. It isindicated to treat glioblastoma multiforme in China, Macao, and Hong Kong, with options for other indications.

The company said that APG101 restores the immune response against tumors and inhibits invasive tumor cell growth by blocking the CD95 ligand.

In a Phase II trial conducted in Europe, APG101 showed an improved overall survival benefit in patients with relapsed glioblastoma.

In addition, the trial showed that glioblastoma patients with a certain biomarker associated with the CD95 ligand experienced the greatest benefit from treatment with APG101.

A companion diagnostic test is being developed by Apogenix to identify those patients most likely to benefit from APG101 treatment.

As part of the deal, Apogenix will receive upfront and milestone payments, as well as royalty payments, at tiered, double-digit royalty rates after the commercial launch of APG101 in China.

CANbridge chairman and CEO James Xue said: "Development of this targeted therapeutic fits the CANbridge mission of bringing promising Western treatments to China and other Asian territories, where patients’ severe medical needs are going unmet.

"The mortality rate of malignant glioma is one of the top ten among all cancers in China. With very limited treatment options, the outcomes for Chinese patients are even more grim than in the West.

"The potential to develop a targeted immuno-oncology product represents a tremendous advance for glioblastoma treatment in China."

In Europe, APG101 is also being evaluated in a Phase I trial for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).