Mabwell (Shanghai) Bioscience Co., Ltd. and Aditum Bio have launched Kalexo Bio, a new company formed in conjunction with an exclusive global license agreement to develop 2MW7141, a novel dual-target siRNA candidate for lipid management in patients with dyslipidemia and for the prevention of high-risk atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) events.
Aditum Bio will provide funding for Kalexo Bio, and the parties will collaborate to advance 2MW7141 into clinical development. In preclinical studies, 2MW7141 demonstrated potent and sustained suppression of target genes with low risk of off-target effects, underscoring its potential as a best-in-class therapy.
Under the agreement, Mabwell will grant Kalexo Bio exclusive worldwide rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize 2MW7141. Mabwell is eligible to receive a total of up to $1bn upfront and in milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on global sales. This includes $12m in non-refundable upfront and near-term cash payments. Mabwell will also receive an equity stake in Kalexo Bio.
“Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, and 2MW7141 represents a novel approach with the potential to change the standard of care in lipid management. We are excited to partner with Mabwell and to launch Kalexo Bio as a dedicated company to advance this promising siRNA therapy into the clinic,” said Joe Jimenez, co-founder and managing director of Aditum Bio.
“The formation of Kalexo Bio marks an important milestone for Mabwell as we expand the global reach of our innovative pipeline. 2MW7141 has shown compelling preclinical results, and we believe that through our partnership with Aditum’s experienced team, we can accelerate its development and ultimately deliver a much-needed therapy to patients at risk of cardiovascular disease worldwide,” said Datao Liu, founder, chairman, and CEO of Mabwell.
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