AbbVie takes a tentative step into bispecific T-cell engagers

AbbVie already has a BCMA-targeting T-cell engager, etentamig, in development, but it’s now looking to a project that hits GPRC5D too. On Monday the big pharma acquired an option to license Simcere’s SIM0500, currently in phase 1 for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. A look at the pipeline shows only a handful of BCMA x GPRC5D-targeting T-cell engagers, a big contrast to the crowding seen in the separate BCMA and GPRC5D fields. However, the multiple myeloma behemoth Johnson & Johnson is already in this arena with JNJ-79635322; that company, which has approved T-cell engagers against BCMA (Tecvayli) and GPRC5D (Talvey), could be a fierce contender. There are also various BCMA x GPRC5D Car-T projects in development, most notably Bristol Myers Squibb’s BMS-986453. AbbVie didn’t disclose the up-front fee it paid for SIM0500, but Simcere could receive option fees and milestones of up to $1.1bn. These payments might never materialise, but the deal at least signals more big pharma interest in this niche, which could bolster groups with similarly acting assets.

GPRC5D x BCMA T-cell engagers in r/r multiple myeloma

Source: OncologyPipeline.