GSK to acquire potential best-in-class T cell-engager (TCE) for multiple myeloma from Chimagen Biosciences

GSK plc (LSE/NYSE: GSK) today announced it has entered an agreement to acquire a potential best-in-class trispecific T cell-engager (TCE) from Chimagen Biosciences (Chimagen), a privately held biotechnology company. GSK plans to develop and commercialise the asset for multiple myeloma, with the programme expected to enter phase I trials in 2027.

TCEs have shown transformational efficacy in multiple myeloma but have been associated with difficult tolerability profiles. The Chimagen trispecific asset is designed to address this by binding to T cells while simultaneously targeting two strategically selected and validated tumour-associated antigens. This targeted approach aims to achieve a deeper and more durable response compared to existing TCEs, along with an improved tolerability profile. This could enable broader adoption and earlier use in multiple myeloma treatment, providing an important advancement for patients who may require multiple options depending on their treatment needs. The US TCE market for multiple myeloma is expected to exceed $10 billion by 2032.¹

Hesham Abdullah, Senior Vice President, Global Head Oncology, R&D, GSK, said: "Today's deal secures a promising T cell engager and advances GSK's leadership goals in blood cancer. The agreement complements our existing portfolio in multiple myeloma, adding a new potential option to address the different needs of patients facing this complex disease."

Zhenhao Zhou, Chief Executive Officer, Chimagen Biosciences, said: "Our mission has always been to translate cutting-edge innovation into life-changing medicines. Working with GSK combines our precision T-cell engager programme with their global development and commercial capabilities to redefine care for multiple myeloma patients. This agreement also marks another major milestone for our platforms as we continue to build an industry-leading pipeline of multi-specific antibody candidates."

Multiple myeloma is the third most common blood cancer globally, with approximately 180,000 new cases diagnosed globally each year.^2,3 While generally considered treatable, it is not currently curable, and research into new therapies is vital as the disease commonly becomes refractory to available treatments.⁴

The agreement builds on GSK's existing relationship with Chimagen, following a previous agreement to acquire CMG1A46, a clinical-stage dual CD19 and CD20-targeted TCE currently in phase I trials for B-cell malignancies and B-cell dependent autoimmune disorders.