Lantheus Holdings, Inc. has made a significant acquisition by obtaining the global rights to Life Molecular Imaging's RM2, targeting the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR). This includes a clinical-stage radiotherapeutic and radiodiagnostic pair, 177Lu-DOTA-RM2 and 68Ga-DOTA-RM2. The acquisition involved an upfront payment of $35 million and potential regulatory milestone payments plus royalties.
This move strengthens Lantheus' position in prostate cancer and expands its pipeline to include breast and other cancers. The 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 targets cancers overexpressing GRPR, such as prostate, breast, lung, pancreatic, colorectal, gastric, and ovarian cancers. Lantheus intends to commence a phase 1/2a study with 177Lu-DOTA-RM2 in prostate cancer patients in 2025, while 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 will be utilized as a companion diagnostic.
Brian Markison, CEO of Lantheus, emphasized the potential of targeting GRPR with 177Lu-DOTA-RM2 and 68Ga-DOTA-RM2, creating a new option to expand access to radiotheranostics for more prostate cancer patients. This expansion of therapeutic offerings opens avenues for commercial synergies.
It's notable that Life Molecular, a subsidiary of Life Healthcare Group, will complete the phase 1/2a dose escalation study in collaboration with Lantheus. This collaboration reflects confidence in Lantheus' experience in developing and providing access to radiotheranostics in cancer.
The acquisition underscores Lantheus' dedication to pioneering cancer care and marks a significant step towards addressing unmet medical needs in prostate and breast cancer treatment. Following these announcements, the company's shares moved 2.7%, and are now trading at a price of $80.61. For more information, read the company's full 8-K submission here.
