Servier's decision to option an anti-B7-H3 mAb from MacroGenics Inc. adds a compound with a multi-pronged mechanism that could be an improvement on immunomodulatory mAbs that target other B7 family proteins, such as Yervoy ipilimumab.

Last month, Servier paid $20 million up front for the option to license exclusive rights to MGA271 outside North America, India, Japan and Korea. MacroGenics could receive a further $430 million, including milestones and an option exercise fee, and is eligible for tiered, double-digit royalties.