Amgen Acquires Investigational Multiple Myeloma Drug

Amgen recently acquired global and development rights to Boehringer Ingelheim’s investigational drug, BI 836908 (AMG 420), for the treatment of multiple myeloma.

BI 836908 (AMG 420) is a bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) that targets the B-cell maturation antigen (BCME), and is currently being evaluated in phase 1 studies.

“Obtaining global rights to BI 836908 (AMG 420) advances Amgen’s immune-oncology strategy, allowing us to leverage our expertise with the BiTE platform to target BCME in the multiple myeloma setting,” said Sean E. Harper, MD, executive vice president of Research and Development at Amgen. “Multiple myeloma is a rare and aggressive blood cancer and despite new advances there is currently not cure. BI 836908 (AMG 420) allows us to explore a potential new treatment approach that harnesses the immune system to fight multiple myeloma.”

BI 836908 (AMG 420) was initially licensed to Boehringer Ingelheim by Micromet, before being acquired by Amgen in 2012, according to a press release. Under the agreement, Amgen will work with Boehringer Ingelheim to assume responsibility for the clinical development of the investigational drug, transfer manufacturing, and lead global regulatory activity moving forward, the release stated.

Additionally, Amgen will receive worldwide commercialization rights for BI 836908 (AMG 420).

“Boehringer Ingelheim is delighted that Amgen will continue our successful development of this important compound for multiple myeloma,” said Dr Jörg Barth, corporate senior vice president, Therapy Area Head Oncology at Boehringer Ingelheim. “Given Amgen’s focus in this disease area, we are convinced this best supports the future development for BI 836908 (AMG 420) and the goal to ultimately offer new treatment options for patients. Immuno-oncology and T cell engagers remain a key area of focus for Boehringer Ingelheim as well as providing innovative treatments for lung and blood cancers.”

The financial terms of the agreement will not be disclosed.