Algeta signs exclusive agreement with Lumiphore, Inc. to access proprietary technology to enhance its Thorium platform

27-10-2010: Algeta ASA announced it has entered into a technology access agreement with Lumiphore, Inc. that could enable Algeta to develop the next generation of cancer-targeting alpha-pharmaceuticals. The agreement provides Algeta with exclusive access to Lumiphore’s novel, patented Lumi4® chelator technology, which will be evaluated for its ability to bind the alpha-emitter thorium-227 and link it to tumor-targeting molecules, such as antibodies.

Algeta’s strategy for enhancing its alpha-pharmaceutical pipeline beyond Alpharadin, which is currently in phase III, is focused initially on the development of a robust proprietary position around its Thorium platform through both in-house development and selective in-licensing.

The ability to link the alpha-emitter thorium-227 to tumor-targeting molecules is crucial for the development of these new alpha-pharmaceuticals. Algeta has significant chelation expertise having already demonstrated the potent tumor-cell killing capability of thorium-227-conjugated monoclonal antibodies using non-proprietary chelators in validated preclinical models for breast cancer and lymphoma cells.

Lumiphore’s Lumi4® isophthalamide technology is based on a new class of chelators that bind metals in the lanthanide and actinide groups of the periodic table – thorium is an actinide. The primary benefit of the technology as it relates to Algeta’s Thorium platform is that it forms a novel cage structure surrounding and tightly binding thorium, which can then be covalently attached to a range of tumor-targeting molecules.

Algeta believes that access to the Lumi4® technology offers a number of potential advantages that could produce enhanced conjugates when compared to those successfully employed in the previous thorium feasibility studies. Key benefits are expected to include more rapid, efficient and cost-effective chelation and conjugation processes, and increased conjugate stability. In addition, use of the technology if applied successfully, is anticipated to strengthen Algeta’s proprietary position around its Thorium platform.

Under the terms of the agreement, Algeta obtains an exclusive 12-month option to an exclusive license for the use of Lumiphore’s Lumi4® chelator technology within the field of therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals. The license will also give Algeta the right to use this technology in companion imaging radiopharmaceuticals for determining either the suitability of patients for treatment and/or the effectiveness of treatment.

Algeta will pay Lumiphore a fee on signing the option agreement and will make further payments should it exercise the option and take up the license.