Astellas, CytomX form T-cell engaging cancer antibodies partnership

Astellas has entered into a new partnership with CytomX Therapeutics, in order to develop T-cell engaging bispecific antibodies targeting CD3 and tumour cell surface antigens for the treatment of cancer. The companies have revealed that the deal, which is potentially worth more than $1.6 billion, will focus on several initial programmes, with CytomX leading research and discovery activities, up to clinical candidate selection, which will be funded by Astellas. As part of the deal, Astellas has confirmed that it will make an upfront cash payment of $80 million to CytomX, with the latter eligible to receive future milestones of over $1.6 billion