What's Happening?
Regeneron has decided to discontinue its early-stage CAR T therapy candidate, bbT369, which was being developed for relapsed or refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This decision comes as part of
a strategic business move, according to a Regeneron spokesperson. The therapy was acquired from 2seventy bio in January 2024, when Regeneron paid $5 million upfront for the entire pipeline of cell therapies. Despite the discontinuation of bbT369, Regeneron maintains its commitment to cell therapy through its dedicated R&D unit, Regeneron Cell Medicines, which focuses on developing novel treatments for cancer and immune-mediated diseases. The company’s pipeline includes another cell therapy, an anti-MUC16 asset called 27T51, currently in Phase I trials for ovarian cancer.
Why It's Important?
The discontinuation of bbT369 highlights the challenges faced by the cell therapy sector, which has seen several high-profile exits recently. Companies like Takeda and Novo Nordisk have also pulled back from cell therapy investments, indicating a broader industry trend. For Regeneron, this move allows the company to reallocate resources and focus on other promising areas within its cell therapy portfolio. The decision could impact stakeholders in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, as it reflects shifting priorities and the need for strategic realignment in response to market conditions and scientific challenges.
What's Next?
Regeneron will continue to develop its remaining cell therapy assets, including the SC-DARIC33 therapy for acute myeloid leukemia, which is currently in a Phase I trial at Seattle Children’s Hospital. The company’s ongoing commitment to cell therapy suggests that it will seek to optimize its pipeline and potentially explore new partnerships or acquisitions to strengthen its position in this field. Industry observers will be watching closely to see how Regeneron navigates the evolving landscape of cell therapy and whether it can achieve breakthroughs that justify its continued investment.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision to discontinue bbT369 may have deeper implications for the cell therapy industry, as it underscores the high-risk nature of developing such treatments. Ethical considerations around patient access to innovative therapies and the allocation of research funding may also come into play. As companies reassess their strategies, there could be a shift towards more collaborative approaches or alternative therapeutic modalities that offer a better balance of risk and reward.
