In a strategic move to enhance their immunology portfolio, GSK has announced an agreement to acquire experimental therapy CMG1A46 from Chimagen Biosciences, a privately-held biotechnology company based in China. Per the terms of the deal, GSK will pay Chimagen $300 million upfront to develop and commercialize CMG1A46 with a focus on autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN). Chimagen may also be eligible for an additional $550 million following success-based development and commercial milestones. 

CMG1A46 is a dual CD19/CD20 targeted T cell-engager directed at deep B cell depletion. In preclinical studies, CMG1A46 has shown rapid, deep B cell depletion both in the bloodstream and in tissues. The drug is currently in a phase 1 clinical trial for leukemia and lymphoma (types of blood cancer) in the U.S. and China. GSK has plans to begin a phase 1 trial for lupus in 2025. 

Continue to follow the Lupus Foundation of America for updates on CMG1A46. Learn more about medications used to treat lupus.

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