Orion Corporation and Glykos Finland have entered into a research collaboration and licensing agreement to develop next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).

Under the agreement, Orion gains access to Glykos’ ADC technologies, initiating an ADC program with the potential for expansion into two additional programs in the future. Orion will be responsible for the target selection, research, development, and commercialization of up to three next-generation ADCs, with a focus on solid tumors.

“Collaboration with Glykos and possibility to utilize their ADC technology complements nicely our research portfolio in oncology and is yet another demonstration of our will to develop new treatment options for cancer patients with unmet needs,” says Outi Vaarala, Senior Vice President, Innovative Medicines and R&D, Orion.

The acknowledgment of our ADC technology by an esteemed pharmaceutical company like Orion is a strong statement to the transformative potential of these technologies in enhancing the therapeutic index of ADCs.”

Glykos is eligible for milestone payments related to signing of the agreement, target selection and sales milestones. Glykos is also entitled to receive royalties on commercial sales generated from the three ADC programs.

“The acknowledgment of our ADC technology by an esteemed pharmaceutical company like Orion is a strong statement to the transformative potential of these technologies in enhancing the therapeutic index of ADCs. We look forward to partnering with Orion and believe that with their expertise on cancer therapies and robust clinical pipeline, this partnership can deliver innovative medicines for cancer patients,” says Juhani Saarinen, CEO of Glykos.

Photo of Outi Vaarala: Orion