Amgen licenses ImmunoGen technology against new cancer target

Amgen has agreed a new licensing deal that will allow it to utilise technology from ImmunoGen in a cancer research project.

The firm has licensed the exclusive right to use ImmunoGen's maytansinoid targeted antibody payload (TAP) technology to develop anticancer therapeutics against an unspecified target.

Amgen previously licensed rights for two other targets in 2009 and now has two compounds in clinical testing under those licences, with ImmunoGen receiving upfront and milestone-based fees as part of these arrangements.

TAP compounds use a tumour-targeting monoclonal antibody to deliver one of ImmunoGen's purpose-developed cancer-killing agents specifically to tumour cells, with ten compounds of this kind now in clinical testing.

Daniel Junius, president and chief executive officer at ImmunoGen, said: "We're pleased with the interest major healthcare companies are showing in developing multiple product candidates with our TAP technology."

Earlier this month, Amgen expanded its capabilities further through the acquisition of  deCODE Genetics, a global leader in human genetics headquartered in Iceland.