Boehringer Ingelheim and Cue Biopharma partner to develop next-generation treatment for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases

Core Viewpoint - Boehringer Ingelheim and Cue Biopharma have entered into a strategic research collaboration and license agreement to develop Cue Biopharma's CUE-501, a differentiated B cell depletion therapy aimed at treating autoimmune diseases [1][3]. Company Overview - Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company focused on human and animal health, emphasizing innovative therapies for high unmet medical needs, with over 53,500 employees serving in more than 130 markets [5]. - Cue Biopharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing a novel class of injectable biologics designed to selectively engage and modulate disease-specific T cells [6][7]. Collaboration Details - The collaboration aims to leverage Cue Biopharma's proprietary T-cell engager platform to enhance the development of CUE-501, potentially providing a more effective treatment option for patients with autoimmune diseases [3][4]. - Cue Biopharma will receive an upfront payment of $12 million, along with research support payments, and could earn up to approximately $345 million in milestone-based payments and royalties on net sales [4]. Product Candidate - CUE-501 is designed to bind to a B cell specific membrane protein while selectively engaging virus-specific memory killer T cells, allowing for targeted depletion of B cells and reduction of autoimmune and inflammatory processes [2][6]. - The candidate has the potential to provide improved benefits and safety compared to existing therapies targeting B cells, aiming to reach patients earlier in their treatment journey [2][6].