Our UK Life Sciences team has successfully advised client Oxford BioTherapeutics on a $1 billion agreement with Roche, a global leader in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics.

This collaboration will focus on multiple oncology targets (i.e. molecules within the human body that may be implicated in various cancers) that will be identified by Oxford BioTherapeutics' proprietary OGAP-Verify discovery platform, which enables the selection of targets with better attributes for drug development. The selected targets will be validated jointly by Oxford BioTherapeutics and Roche, before Roche takes over the research, development, and commercialisation of potential antibody-based drugs directed against these targets.

Under the terms of the agreement, Roche will provide Oxford BioTherapeutics with up to $36 million in upfront payments. Additionally, Oxford BioTherapeutics stands to receive milestone payments that could exceed $1 billion, along with royalties from potential sales.

This strategic partnership marks Roche's third antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) pact of the year and underscores the continued innovation and collaboration in the life sciences sector.

Of Counsel Dr Luke Kempton advised Oxford BioTherapeutics on this deal working with OBT General Counsel Patrick Duxbury.

Luke Kempton said: "We are proud to have supported Oxford BioTherapeutics in securing this significant partnership with Roche. This agreement not only highlights the strength of our client's innovative discovery platform but also sets the stage for groundbreaking advancements in oncology treatment."

Gowling WLG's global Life Sciences Group has the technical understanding required to advise on the unique challenges companies face throughout their life cycles. They draw on first-hand industry experience and extensive legal expertise to guide and support business, intellectual property, human resource and regulatory teams in key areas of life sciences.