Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent developments and market positioning of Weili Zhibo, a biotech company that has recently gone public in Hong Kong, focusing on T-cell engagers (TCE) as a novel cancer treatment approach, amidst a competitive landscape in the innovative drug sector [1][4]. Company Overview - Weili Zhibo completed its IPO in July 2023, becoming the first TCE-focused company listed in China [1]. - The company has gained significant market attention, with retail subscriptions reaching a record 3,494.8 times during its IPO [4]. - The CEO, Kang Xiaoqiang, emphasizes a long-term development strategy over quick fame, focusing on the company's research pipeline and clinical data [4][5]. TCE Technology - TCEs are positioned as a promising alternative to antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), with the potential to activate T-cells against cancer cells [3][5]. - The first TCE drug to surpass $1 billion in sales is Amgen's Blincyto, which targets leukemia [5]. - TCEs have advantages in terms of lower antigen expression requirements and longer duration of action compared to ADCs [5]. Clinical Development - Weili Zhibo has six innovative drug candidates in clinical stages, with LBL-024 being the closest to market, targeting advanced neuroendocrine carcinoma [8][9]. - The clinical strategy involves starting with niche indications and expanding to larger cancer types, aiming for a broad-spectrum anti-cancer approach [9]. - The company plans to showcase two new blood cancer drugs at the 2025 ASH annual meeting, indicating strong clinical data [6][7]. Market Strategy - The company has opted for a "small first, then large" strategy to address unmet clinical needs in less competitive areas [9]. - Weili Zhibo has secured a global licensing agreement with Dianthus Therapeutics, potentially generating over $10 billion in total transaction value [10]. - The CEO remains cautious about market volatility and emphasizes the importance of having sufficient funds to support R&D for the next 4-5 years [10][11].
港股创新药调整期真的来了？ 维立志博董事长康小强：不会将注意力集中于“追风”