GSK agrees $1.3 billion deal with Hutchmed for early-stage KRAS-EGFR cancer candidate

GSK will pay $110 million upfront to Hutchmed as part of a deal that could reach $1.295 billion, giving GSK worldwide rights to develop and commercialize a preclinical oncology asset.

The asset, identified as HMPL-A830, is a KRAS-EGFR antibody-drug conjugate designed to deliver a KRAS inhibitor directly to EGFR-expressing tumors while simultaneously blocking both pathways.

Development will focus on colorectal, pancreatic and lung cancers, which have the highest rates of KRAS-altered tumors. Hutchmed will conduct the Phase 1 trial, after which GSK will assume all research, development and commercialization responsibilities outside Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

GSK’s senior vice-president for oncology said the agreement reflects the company’s expanding oncology leadership and its commitment to bring innovative treatments to patients.