Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2025-10-09 12:39Core Viewpoint - The company, Innovent Biologics, announced a licensing agreement with Zenas for its core product, Orelabrutinib, in the field of multiple sclerosis and other non-oncological indications, marking its second business development (BD) deal of the year [1][2] Group 1: Licensing Agreement Details - Innovent's subsidiary, InnoCare, will receive up to $100 million in upfront and milestone payments from Zenas, along with 7 million shares of Zenas common stock, with the total potential deal value exceeding $2 billion [1][2] - The agreement allows Zenas to develop and commercialize Orelabrutinib globally for multiple sclerosis and other non-cancer treatments, while Innovent retains exclusive rights for oncology indications [2][4] Group 2: Product Pipeline and Market Potential - Orelabrutinib is currently approved for three indications in hematological malignancies in China and has initiated Phase III trials for primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) [2][5] - The new oral IL-17AA/AF inhibitor and the brain-penetrant oral TYK2 inhibitor are in preclinical stages, targeting autoimmune diseases, aligning with Zenas's focus [3][6] - The market for multiple sclerosis treatments is significant, especially in Europe and North America, where there is a high unmet clinical need for PPMS therapies [5][6] Group 3: Financial Position and Industry Context - As of June 30, 2025, Innovent holds approximately 7.68 billion yuan in cash and equivalents, indicating a strong financial position to support ongoing and future developments [6] - The global landscape for business development in the pharmaceutical industry is shifting, with increased collaboration opportunities between Chinese companies and foreign firms [5]