Telix licenses Wilex’ girentuximab programme

Under the agreement, Telix Pharmaceutical has acquired the right for global development and commercialisation of the imaging diagnostic, which targets carbonic anhydrase-9 (CAIX), an antigen highly expressed on clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) cells. Targeting and accumulation of the radiolabeled antibody in tumour tissue can be visualised by molecular imaging with Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and has significant diagnostic and staging value in the management of renal (kidney) cancer. Wilex has successfully completed a first Phase III trial with Redectane in ccRCC.

According to the deal, Telix will optimise the current manufacturing process for the imaging agent. Telix will pay upfront and milestone payments totalling US$3.7m. In addition, Wilex is eligible to receive significant royalties on global net sales of Redectane, commensurate with a Phase III asset. Telix will be responsible for all development costs, as well as manufacturing and commercialisation costs.

Furthermore, Telix will develop a therapeutic radioimmunoconjugate programme based on girentuximab. Early clinical data suggests that ¹⁷⁷Lu-labeled girentuximab has disease-stabilising effects in patients with advanced staged metastatic renal cancer. Telix is evaluating the use of CAIX-targeting therapeutic agents with both beta- and alpha-emitting radionuclides for a variety of malignancies. Under the terms of the agreement, if a therapeutic product developed by Telix is ultimately granted marketing approval, Wilex will receive single-digit royalties.

Wilex’ CEO Jan Schmidt-Brand said: “Telix is one of the few firms, globally, that has the experience and capability to effectively address the dual technical challenge of radiochemistry and biologics development. This agreement also represents another important step in our strategic realignment and enables us to further focus on our innovative ATAC technology.”