Fosun's Henlius Secures $202M Deal for HanchorBio's CD47 Blocker in Regional Markets

Fosun Pharma subsidiary Henlius Biotech has entered into a significant licensing agreement with HanchorBio for the regional rights to HCB101, a phase 2 CD47 blocker. The deal, valued at up to $202 million, marks a major development in the pursuit of novel cancer immunotherapies and highlights the growing importance of the Greater China market in global pharmaceutical partnerships.

Deal Structure and Regional Focus

Henlius will pay an upfront fee of $10 million to HanchorBio for the rights to develop and commercialize HCB101 in Greater China, key Southeast Asian countries, and all countries in the Middle East and North Africa. The agreement includes potential additional payments of up to $192 million in development and regulatory milestones, as well as tiered royalties.

This strategic move allows Henlius to expand its oncology portfolio in crucial emerging markets while providing HanchorBio with a strong regional partner to advance its lead asset.

HCB101: A Promising CD47 Inhibitor

HCB101 is an engineered SIRP?-IgG4 Fc fusion protein that targets the CD47 receptor, a protein known to play a crucial role in cancer cells' ability to evade the immune system. By inhibiting CD47, HCB101 aims to enable macrophages to recognize and destroy malignant cells more effectively.

The drug candidate has already entered phase 2 trials for both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies, including head and neck, gastric, colorectal, and breast cancers. HanchorBio touts HCB101 as having strong efficacy comparable to earlier CD47-targeted agents but with reduced hematologic toxicity, a critical factor in the development of this class of drugs.

Industry Context and Competitive Landscape

The pursuit of effective CD47 inhibitors has been a focus of intense research and investment in the pharmaceutical industry. However, the field has seen notable setbacks, including Gilead Sciences' high-profile failure with magrolimab, acquired through its $4.9 billion purchase of Forty Seven in 2020. After years of unsuccessful trials, clinical holds, and patient safety concerns, Gilead ultimately discontinued the program in August 2024.

HCB101's progress and Henlius' investment signal continued interest in the CD47 pathway despite these challenges. The deal also underscores the pharmaceutical industry's ongoing efforts to develop safer and more effective cancer immunotherapies.