GSK, Genmab Enter Global HuMax-CD20 Pact

GlaxoSmithKline and Genmab have entered a worldwide agreement to co-develop and commercialize HuMax-CD20, a human monoclonal antibody in late stage development for CD20 positive B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) and follicular non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) and in Phase II for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The agreement is subject to review under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act.

Under the terms of the agreement, Genmab will receive a license fee of approximately $102 million, and GSK will invest approximately $357 million in Genmab. The potential value of this agreement, in the event of commercial success in cancer and various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, could exceed $2.1 billion. Genmab will also be entitled to receive tiered royalties on global sales of HuMax-CD20.

GSK will receive an exclusive worldwide license to HuMax-CD20 as well as other antibodies with affinity for the CD20 antigen, which Genmab may develop. GSK will also have an exclusive option to a CD20 UniBody to be developed in collaboration with Genmab. The two companies will co-develop HuMax-CD20. Genmab will be responsible for development costs until 2008, including two ongoing late-stage oncology studies after which development costs will be shared. GSK will be solely responsible for the manufacturing and commercialization of HuMax-CD20.

Genmab will have an option to co-promote HuMax-CD20 in a targeted oncology setting in the U.S. and in the Nordic region. Should this be undertaken, Genmab will have the option co-promote Bexxar and Arranon in the U.S. and Atriance in the Nordic region.

Dr. Moncef Slaoui, chairman of R&D, GSK, commented, “We believe that this alliance is a significant step for GSK and Genmab. By combining the skills and knowledge of Genmab in developing fully human antibodies, such as HuMax-CD20, and the substantial experience of GSK in clinical and commercial development, we hope to be able to bring this innovative and potentially valuable medicine to patients as soon as possible.”