Ofatumumab: Phase III started

GlaxoSmithKline began an open-label, international Phase III trial in 338 patients to compare Treanda bendamustine with and without IV ofatumumab. The start triggers a milestone payment of DKK116 million ($20.1 million) to Genmab from GSK, which licensed exclusive, worldwide rights to co-develop and commercialize the compound in 2006. In July, the companies amended the deal to grant GSK full responsibility for development of ofatumumab in autoimmune indications (see BioCentury, July 5). GSK markets ofatumumab as Arzerra in the U.S. and EU to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Ofatumumab also is in Phase III testing to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). ...