(Yicai) Jan. 13 -- Harbour BioMed and Kelun-Biotech Biopharmaceutical have granted Swiss startup Windward Bio exclusive global rights to their long-acting anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin monoclonal antibody, with the deal potentially worth up to USD970 million.

The agreement covers the development and commercialization rights of HBM9378/SKB378 worldwide, except in China and select Asian markets, Harbour BioMed and Kelun-Biotech announced on Jan. 10 and 11, respectively.

HBM9378/SKB378 is a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting TSLP, a cytokine linked to asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It blocks TSLP receptor interaction, inhibiting relevant inflammatory pathways.

Under the deal, Windward Bio will make initial payments of USD45 million in cash and equity in its parent company, Harbour BioMed and Kelun-Biotech noted. It will also pay an equal share of single-to-double-digit percentage royalties on annual net sales to the two Chinese companies.

The deal is a significant out-licensing achievement through the NewCo business model, Harbour BioMed said. In the pharmaceutical industry, the model involves creating a separate entity to focus on specific assets or tech, enabling targeted licensing deals and attracting investment while mitigating risks for the parent firm.

Shanghai-based Harbour BioMed submitted an investigational new drug application for HBM9378/SKB378 in COPD treatment in China last November and has completed a Phase I trial for treating moderate-to-severe asthma.

Anti-TSLP monoclonal antibodies have been gaining attention in the pharmaceutical sector, with major companies developing such products, including UK's GSK and Blackstone-incubated Uniquity Bio.

On the same day, Windward Bio said it bagged USD200 million in a Series A fundraiser led by leading healthcare investors OrbiMed, Novo Holdings, and Blue Owl Healthcare Opportunities. Other prominent venture capital firms also took part in the financing round.

Editor: Martin Kadiev