Adding first CAR T to growing cell therapy unit, Bayer picks Atara’s allogeneic program targeting mesothelin

Via a deal with Atara, Bayer’s latest additions to its new gene and cell therapy unit are an allogeneic CAR T treatment that the pharma hopes can treat solid tumors — and an autologous version that could provide lessons that will inform the off-the-shelf therapy’s development.

Bayer AG (Xetra:BAYN) will pay $60 million up front to gain exclusive, worldwide rights to ATA3271 and ATA2271, the first CAR T therapies in which the pharma will have an interest. Atara Biotherapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:ATRA) is eligible for $610 million in milestones, plus double-digit royalties...