HCW Biologics(US:HCWB) Globenewswire·2026-03-17 11:50Core Insights - HCW Biologics Inc. has received a total upfront license fee of $7.0 million from Beijing Trimmune Biotech Co., Ltd., which includes a cash payment of $3.5 million and an in-kind payment of a transferable equity interest valued at $3.5 million [1][3] - The initiation of a Phase 1 clinical study in China for HCW11-006 is expected in the first half of 2027 [1] - HCW Biologics retains a "free" option to reclaim rights to the Americas territory after the Phase 1 clinical trial in China [1] Company Overview - HCW Biologics is a U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel fusion immunotherapies for autoimmune diseases, cancer, and senescence-associated dysplasia [4] - The company's lead product candidate for autoimmune disorders is HCW9302, currently in a Phase 1 clinical study for alopecia areata [4] - HCW Biologics has identified two preclinical candidates, HCW11-018b and HCW11-040, which are designed to address specific challenges in treating solid tumors and enhancing immune responses [4] Licensing and Development - Trimmune, formed by WY Biotech Co., Ltd. and HCW Biologics, is responsible for the development and commercialization of HCW11-006 [2] - The licensing agreement allows HCW Biologics to receive significant milestone payments and double-digit royalties on future product sales [3] - Trimmune has the option to license exclusive regional rights for HCW9302 in China, with additional payments due to HCW Biologics if this option is exercised [3]