Merck KGaA gets US rights for liposome vaccine

Merck KGaA has acquired the full rights to BLP25 Liposome Vaccine (L-BLP25) in the US from Biomira.

The firm will commence Phase III clinical trial in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) later this year.

Elmar Schnee, Merck deputy executive board member with responsibility for pharmaceuticals, said: “Merck is pleased that it has the opportunity to develop what appears to be a very promising treatment for non-small cell lung cancer, which is one of the most prevalent and deadly of all cancers.

“We believe this new agreement is not only beneficial for both companies but also for patients.”

Under the agreement Merck will take full responsibility for the development and marketing of the drug and Biomira will receive royalty payments.

Dr Alex McPherson, president and chief executive of Biomira, said: “This agreement will ensure the fastest possible initiation of the Phase III program in NSCLC as well as the possibility of exploring L-BLP25’s potential in other forms of cancer.

“Merck’s decision to take over the full cost of the trials will enable Biomira to focus our efforts and resources on our follow-on cancer vaccine, BGLP40, and on building our pipeline by acquiring new products.”

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