NEW YORK – Bliss Biopharmaceutical on Monday said it will collaborate with Eisai to develop its antibody-drug conjugate BB-1701 as a treatment for patients with HER2-expressing solid tumors.
BB-1701 comprises an anti-HER2 antibody and an eribulin anti-cancer payload. The Hangzhou, China-based company is investigating BB-1701 in a Phase I/II trial in patients with locally advanced or metastatic HER2-expressing solid tumors. In the Part 1, dose-escalation phase of the trial, investigators will determine a maximum tolerated dose and recommended Phase II dose using a traditional "3 + 3" trial design. In Part 2 of the trial, they will explore one or more doses of BB-1701 in patients with certain cancers, including breast, gastric, bladder, and colon, who have progressed on prior standard therapies.
BlissBio and Eisai will codevelop BB-1701 through an option period. BlissBio will receive an undisclosed upfront payment. Upon Esai's exercise of its option to license the drug, BlissBio will receive an additional payment and will be eligible for development and commercial milestone payments in exchange for worldwide rights excluding greater China.