Seattle Genetics and Bayer Partner for a Second Time to Develop Antibody-Drug Conjugates

Abstract

Bayer has formed a second antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) collaboration with Seattle Genetics under which it will obtain worldwide rights to utilise the company’s auristatin-based ADC technology with antibodies to several undisclosed cancer targets. Under the terms of the agreement, which is potentially worth US$520 M, Bayer is responsible for the research, development, manufacturing and commercialisation of all collaboration products. The two companies previously partnered in 2004 to develop an ADC against a single solid tumour target. This collaboration spawned BAY 79-4620, development of which was terminated in 2011.