On January 30, 2024 Ichnos Sciences Inc. (Ichnos), a global, fully integrated, clinical-stage biotech company and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (Glenmark), a leading, research-driven, global pharmaceutical company, reported the launch of their alliance – Ichnos Glenmark Innovation – to accelerate new drug discovery in cancer treatment (Press release, Ichnos Sciences, JAN 30, 2024, View Source;ichnos-glenmark-innovation-302048131.html [SID1234639720]). This alliance combines Ichnos’ research and development proficiencies in novel biologics with those of Glenmark in new small molecules, to continue developing cutting-edge therapy solutions that treat hematological malignancies and solid tumors.
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The newly formed IGI features a robust pipeline of three innovative oncology molecules targeting multiple myeloma, acute myeloid leukemia, and solid tumors currently undergoing clinical trials. Two of these molecules have received orphan drug designation from the U.S. FDA. Additionally, IGI has two autoimmune disease assets that have been out licensed to leading companies. The alliance will also further explore the in-licensing of late-stage clinical assets to augment its novel oncology drug pipeline.
Harnessing the combined proficiency of over 150 scientists, IGI will leverage the capabilities of its three global centers of innovation. These comprise the Ichnos’ headquarters in New York City, NY, USA which is focused on clinical development; the biologics research center in Lausanne, Switzerland; and Glenmark’s small molecule research center at Mahape in Mumbai, India.
"We are proud to announce the Ichnos Glenmark Innovation alliance, which brings together the legacy of Glenmark and passion of Ichnos to accelerate the search for curing cancer. Innovation is an integral part of our organization’s fabric and through IGI, we are confident of getting closer to our quest to develop a novel cancer drug for the world. Additionally, this will also enhance shareholder value by optimizing the cost of development." remarked Glenn Saldanha, Chairman and Managing Director, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Cyril Konto, President and CEO, Ichnos Glenmark Innovation, said, "Ichnos Glenmark Innovation is a collaborative venture backed by a strong, collective pipeline of novel multispecifics and small molecules. Supported by an experienced leadership and comprising a team that ardently believes in challenging the frontiers of science, IGI seeks to accelerate drug development by combining technologies, expertise, and forces while leveraging Glenmark’s footprint in India. We look forward to joining hands with other like-minded entities, including biotech companies and academia."
IGI – Brand Identity:
IGI’s brand identity succinctly expresses its belief. The letters IGI combine the graphic of a compass to suggest how collaboration guides IGI towards innovation. The brand line ‘Collaboration propels innovation’ completes the message. This new alliance promises myriad new possibilities for Glenmark, Ichnos and the world at large.
IGI – Asset Pipeline:
Oncology Pipeline
Has an exciting platform of novel biologics and small molecules targeting the spectrum of hematological cancers and solid tumors.
Molecule Mechanism / Class
Indication
Phase/Status
ISB 1442 (CD38 x CD47) BEAT biparatopic bispecific antibody
Relapsed / Refractory Multiple Myeloma.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Phase 1
Orphan Drug
ISB 2001 (BCMA x CD38 x CD3) TREAT trispecific antibody
Relapsed / Refractory Multiple Myeloma.
Phase 1
Orphan Drug
GRC 54276 Hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 inhibitor
Advanced Solid Tumors.
Phase 1 Monotherapy and Combination with PD1 or PD-L1 Inhibitor
Autoimmune Disease Pipeline
The autoimmune disease assets were out licensed to enable greater focus on oncology.
Molecule Mechanism / Class
Indication
Phase/Status
ISB 880 (ALM 27134)
IL-1RAP Antagonist Monoclonal Antibody
Autoimmune Diseases
Phase 1
Licensed to Almirall S.A.
ISB 830
Telazorlimab OX40 Antagonist Antibody
Atopic Dermatitis
Phase 2b
Licensed to Astria Therapeutics.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and other autoimmune diseases
Active U.S. IND
Available for Licensing
Molecule Mechanism / Class
Indication
Phase/Status
ISB 1342 (CD38 x CD3) BEAT bispecific antibody
Relapsed / Refractory Multiple Myeloma.
T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (planned)
Phase 1
Orphan Drug