Sanofi Genzyme has signed a license agreement with Eureka Therapeutics and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for the non-CAR use of a new treatment targeting GPRC5D. As you may know, GPRC5D is a new target being developed for CAR T treatment by Janssen Oncology. This new agreement allows the development of non-CAR myeloma treatments targeting GPRC5D in the joint venture. This could include, for example, the development of a bispecific antibody or monoclonal antibody that targets GPRC5D. 

The GPRC5D binding domain was discovered using Eureka's proprietary discover platform called E-ALPHA.^® Dr. Eric L. Smith, myeloma physician-scientist and inventor on the patents said:

“GPRC5D is a novel target that has emerged as a promising option for the treatment of multiple myeloma, particularly for patients who have relapsed from other therapies.” 

Under the terms of the agreement, Sanofi has exclusive rights to the GPRC5D binder for non-CAR use. Eureka and MSK are eligible to receive an upfront payment and potential regulatory and sales milestone payments. Eureka and MSK are also eligible to receive tiered royalties on net sales.

Eureka Therapeutics is a California-based biotechnology company focused on developing new T cell therapies for cancer patients. They have treatments for solid tumor and blood cancers. 

For myeloma patients who are relapsing after BCMA directed treatments, the new GPRC5D target presents another welcome option. It will be interesting to see this target develop in myeloma care as new treatment approaches (both CAR T and non-CAR) are tested in clinical trials.