Celgene, Dragonfly Enter Strategic TriNKET Platform Pact

Dragonfly Therapeutics, Inc. has entered a global strategic collaboration with Celgene Corp. to discover, develop and commercialize immuno-oncology treatment options for hematological malignancies based on Dragonfly’s Natural Killer (“NK”) cell based TriNKETtechnology platform. 
 
Celgene has the exclusive option to in-license worldwide rights for as many as four therapeutic candidates with potential to treat acute myeloid leukemia, multiple myeloma, and additional hematological malignancies. The collaboration includes a $33 million upfront payment, and potential future milestone and royalty payments. 
 
“NK-cell biology and immunotherapy are increasingly critical areas of hematologic research and we are looking forward to working with Dragonfly’s team of world-leading experts,” said Rupert Vessey, FRCP DPhil, president of Research and Early Development for Celgene. “This collaboration will leverage the strengths of each company as we work together to bring innovative therapies to patients.” 
 
“Through execution of this strategic alliance with Celgene, Dragonfly is well positioned to accelerate our efforts to bring potential new immuno-oncology treatment options to patients with hematological malignancies,” said Bill Haney, co-founder and chief executive officer of Dragonfly Therapeutics. “Celgene is a preeminent biopharmaceutical company with a demonstrated history of recognizing disruptive science that may lead to new treatment options for patients with cancer. We look forward to a successful collaboration.”