Zai Lab Enters into Partnership with MediLink Therapeutics for Novel LRRC15 Antibody-Drug Conjugate
Friday, January 10, 2025
Zai Lab has announced a new collaboration and global licensing agreement with MediLink Therapeutics to develop ZL-6201, a novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting LRRC15.
LRRC15 (Leucine-rich repeat-containing protein 15) is a type I transmembrane protein that facilitates interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix.
It is overexpressed in certain mesenchymal tumours, including sarcoma, glioblastoma, and melanoma, where it plays a role in tumour metastasis. Additionally, LRRC15 is highly expressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) across various cancer types, contributing to an immune-suppressive tumour microenvironment.
These characteristics make LRRC15 a promising target for cancer therapies.
The development will utilise MediLink’s proprietary TMALIN® ADC platform and an antibody discovered by Zai Lab.
The partnership aims to enhance Zai Lab’s global oncology portfolio, focusing on innovative ADC therapies for multiple solid tumours to address significant unmet medical needs.
Preclinical studies for ZL-6201 have shown promising results, with an investigational new drug (IND) application planned for 2025.
This initiative builds on the existing collaboration between the two companies and demonstrates the potential of MediLink’s ADC technology platform to deliver innovative cancer therapies.
The agreement highlights Zai Lab’s commitment to advancing its global oncology pipeline through strategic partnerships and the development of first-in-class treatments.
Source: zailaboratory.com
