Amgen obtains rights to immune-oncology drug for multiple myeloma

Amgen today announced the acquisition of global development and commercial rights to BI 836908 (AMG 420) from Boehringiner Ingelheim

BI 836908 (AMG 420) is an investigational bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) that targets the B-cell maturation antigen, making it a potential treatment for the rare cancer, multiple myeloma. Myeloma cells are abnormal white blood cells that multiply and collect in the bone marrow. 

"Obtaining global rights to BI 836908 (AMG 420) advances Amgen's immuno-oncology strategy, allowing us to leverage our expertise with the BiTE platform to target BCMA in the multiple myeloma setting," Amgen EVP of Research and Development Dr. Sean Harper said. "Multiple myeloma is a rare and aggressive blood cancer and despite new advances there is currently no 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) is currently being evaluated in Phase I studies. The drug was licensed to Boehringer Ingelheim by Micromet, which was acquired by Amgen in 2012. The agreement transfers the global development and worldwide commercialization rights to Amgen.

"Boehringer Ingelheim is delighted that Amgen will continue our successful development of this important compound for multiple myeloma," Boehringer Ingelheim Corporate SVP, Therapy Area Head Oncology, Dr. Jörg Barth said. "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."