Merck & Co. is refining its strategy in the realm of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Shortly after a $4 billion acquisition of three assets from Daiichi Sankyo, Merck has chosen not to proceed with two preclinical ADCs offered by Kelun-Biotech.
Over the past 18 months, China’s Kelun has played a prominent role in Merck’s expansion into the field of ADCs. In this short period, the two companies struck three agreements, granting Merck access to three clinical candidates targeting TROP2 and CLDN18.2, along with the potential to collaborate on up to six preclinical projects. After swiftly constructing a pipeline comprising nine partnered programs, Merck has decided to withdraw from two of these preclinical endeavors.
Specifically, Merck is relinquishing its license to one preclinical ADC and declining to exercise an option for a second preclinical program. However, the overarching ADC collaboration remains intact, with Merck reaffirming its commitment to advancing the clinical development of the TROP2-focused MK-2870. This move signifies the continuation of their collaboration, with Merck and Kelun collaborating on three key programs: MK-2870, which targets TROP2, MK-1200, focused on CLDN18.2, and a third phase 1 asset. These candidates align well with Merck’s overall ADC strategy, particularly following the addition of Daiichi’s assets, which target HER3, B7-H3, and CDH6.
Also Read: ESMO 2023: GSK’s Jemperli Beats Merck’s Keytruda In Lung Cancer Survival Trial
The timing and context of this decision suggest that Merck’s move to discontinue its involvement with the two preclinical Kelun programs may be linked to their shared target receptors with the clinical-phase ADCs acquired from Daiichi. While the exact rationale remains undisclosed, Merck’s choice offers an opportunity for Kelun to explore other partnerships and options for the two ADCs.
Numerous Western pharmaceutical companies have recognized China as a valuable source of ADC development, with AstraZeneca, BioNTech, and GSK being among those who have engaged in collaborations and programs in the country. This shift in Merck’s strategy underscores the dynamic nature of the pharmaceutical industry’s pursuit of innovative therapies.
