Molecular Templates extends deal with Takeda on engineered toxin bodies
Building on a previous discovery collaboration, Molecular Templates Inc. (NASDAQ:MTEM) and Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (Tokyo:4502) partnered Sept. 19 to develop CD38-targeting engineered toxin bodies (ETBs) to treat multiple myeloma. Molecular Templates will receive $30 million up front and is eligible for milestones and royalties.
Under a 2016 deal, the partners developed preclinical ETB compounds. The ETBs recognize CD38 expressed on MM cells and force the cells to internalize a modified bacterial toxin, which destroys them through the enzymatic destruction of ribosomes. Molecular Templates said unlike other CD38-targeting therapies, ETBs don't rely on the body's own immune system for effectiveness, offering the potential for broader and deeper responses...