Active Biotech's Partner NeoTX Enters Clinical Collaboration With AstraZeneca


Active Biotech recently announced its partner NeoTX entered a clinical collaboration with AstraZeneca Group Plc global biologics research and development arm, MedImmune, to support Phase 1b/2 studies investigating ANYARA in combination with AstraZeneca’s IMFINZI. IMFINZI (durvalumab) is a human monoclonal antibody that blocks the immune checkpoint protein programmed death-ligand (PD-L1). Under terms of the agreement, NeoTX and AstraZeneca will collaborate on a non-exclusive basis to evaluate the combination of the two drugs in solid tumors. NeoTX will sponsor the study, while AstraZeneca will supply durvalumab. Up to 195 patients are planned to be enrolled in this multicenter, open-label study, which is planned to start during 2019.

“We are very pleased with NeoTX’s progress in the ANYARA project. The collaboration with AstraZeneca validates the project and is an important step towards start of the clinical study” said Helén Tuvesson, CEO, Active Biotech AB.

ANYARA (Naptumumab, Naptumomab estafenatox) is a tumor targeting immunotherapy that enhances the ability of the immune system to recognize and kill the tumor. ANYARA induces the activation and expansion of specific T cells outside of the tumor microenvironment and redirect the T cells to attack the tumor cells. Preclinical data demonstrate that ANYARA has synergistic effect with checkpoint inhibitors in various tumor models.

Active Biotech has an agreement with NeoTX Therapeutics Ltd since October 2016 for the global development and commercialization of ANYARA for the treatment of cancer.

NeoTX Ltd. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing promising therapeutic candidates in the field of immuno-oncology. The company in-licenses novel compounds, primarily from academic institutions and biotech companies.

Active Biotech AB  is a biotechnology company with a focus on neurodegenerative/inflammatory diseases and cancer. Laquinimod, an orally administered small molecule with unique immunomodulatory properties in development for neurodegenerative diseases. ANYARA, an immunotherapy, in development for cancer indications in partnership with NeoTX Therapeutics Ltd. Furthermore, commercial activities are conducted for the tasquinimod, paquinimod and SILC projects. For more information, visit www.activebiotech.com.