MorphoSys AG (Frankfurt: MOR; Prime Standard Segment, TecDAX) and Roche today announced a collaboration to develop new therapeutic antibodies in oncology. Expanding on a September 2000 relationship in Alzheimer's disease, Roche will elect new target molecules against which MorphoSys will generate antibodies using its proprietary HuCAL GOLD® technology.
'Extending our active alliance shows a positive and constructive working relationship between Roche and MorphoSys,' said Peter Hug, Roche's Global Head of Pharma Partnering. 'We are pleased to collaborate with a proven partner in a new therapeutic area.'
'Expanding our existing partnerships is a high priority for us,' commented Dr. Simon Moroney, Chief Executive Officer of MorphoSys. 'Roche's commitment to initiating new therapeutic antibody programs with MorphoSys is a clear vote of confidence from an existing partner and validation of the utility of our technology in producing potential drugs.'
Under the terms of the agreement, Roche and MorphoSys will collaborate on two new antibody programs in oncology. Roche will be responsible for preclinical and clinical development as well as subsequent marketing of all resulting products. MorphoSys will receive an upfront payment and may receive additional research funding and future event payments totaling more than €10 million per program, plus potential royalties.