Seattle Genetics, Roche deal
Seattle Genetics said Roche's Genentech Inc. unit will end a 2007 deal and return to Seattle Genetics all rights to dacetuzumab (SGN-40). The mAb targeting CD40 is in four Phase Ib trials to treat relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Genentech will continue to fund any ongoing trials as of the effective date of termination, which is June 8. According to Seattle Genetics, Genentech's decision is a result of an ongoing portfolio review process. Seattle Genetics said it will evaluate available data for the mAb before deciding on next steps for the program. In October, Seattle Genetics discontinued the Phase IIb SeaGen MARINER trial of dacetuzumab to treat relapsed or refractory diffuse large B cell lymphoma after an IDMC said the trial would miss its primary endpoint (see BioCentury, Jan. 15, 2007 & Oct. 12). ...