Celgene and MorphoSys to collaborate on myeloma drug research

Celgene has announced a new alliance with MorphoSys on the development of a fully human monoclonal antibody that has shown potential as a therapy for multiple myeloma.

The agreement will see the companies jointly developing the MOR202 compound globally and co-promoting the drug in Europe, with Celgene also agreeing to make a financial investment in MorphoSys.

Currently being evaluated in a phase I/IIa trial in patients with relapsed/refractory myeloma, the drug has shown promise as a monotherapy, as well as synergistic effects with both a proteasome inhibitor and the oral immunomodulatory treatment lenalidomide.

Mark Alles, executive vice-president and global head of haematology and oncology at Celgene, said: "Strategic investments in next-generation medical innovation make it possible for physicians to turn incurable cancers like multiple myeloma into chronic, more manageable diseases."

Last month, Celgene announced that its oncology agent Revlimid has received an expanded approval in Europe, allowing the product to be used in the treatment of certain myelodysplastic syndromes.