Oxford BioMedica, Novartis deal
The companies expanded May 2013 deal under which Oxford BioMedica is using its LentiVector gene delivery technology to manufacture clinical grade batches of Novartis’ CTL019. Novartis will now have non-exclusive, worldwide rights to develop and commercialize the LentiVector technology in oncology. The pharma also received exclusive, worldwide rights to all chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell products discovered under the 2013 deal. Under the expansion, Oxford is eligible to receive up to $90 million over the next three years, which includes a $14 million upfront payment, plus royalties. The upfront payment includes a $4.3 million equity investment through the purchase of 70.8 million shares. Oxford will continue to manufacture lentiviral vectors expressing CTL019, which is in Phase II development to treat cancer (see BioCentury, May 13, 2013). ...