Latest developments in the field of stem cell research and regenerative medicine compiled from publicly available information and press releases from nonacademic institutions 1 February-31 March 2015.

Abstract

Dusko Ilic Stem Cell Laboratories, Guy’s Assisted Conception Unit, Division of Women’s Health, King’s College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK dusko.ilic@kcl.ac.uk Collaborations, partnerships & alliances Co-development agreement: Merck Serono & Otsuka Merck (Germany; www.merckgroup.com) subsidiary Merck Serono (Germany; www. merckserono.com) has amended its development and license deal with Opexa Therapeutics (TX, USA; www.opexatherapeutics. com) for Tcelna (imilecleucel-T), handing over US$3 million to further support an ongoing trial with the personalized immunotherapy for multiple sclerosis. Merck’s payment will help fund the current Phase IIb clinical study assessing Tcelna for patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, as well as support planning of potential late-stage trials. Under their original 2013 deal, Merck Serono paid Opexa a US$5 million upfront fee for the option to exclusively license Tcelna – a potential first-in-class personalized therapy, which has received USA fast-track designation for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Merck’s option can be exercised prior to or upon completion of the ongoing midstage study, top-line data from which is expected in the second half of 2016. If this occurs, Merck will pay Opexa another US$25 million (or US$15 million, depending upon whether certain conditions are met) for worldwide development and commercial rights excluding Japan, and fund its further development.