Bristol-Myers Squibb Acquires Galecto Biotech, Galectin-3 Inhibitor For IPF

By Cyndi Root

Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) has acquired an option to buy Galecto Biotech AB and the worldwide rights to TD139. BMS announced the move in a press release, stating that the galectin-3 inhibitor treats idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a type of lung disease that scars lung tissue. Galecto’s agent in Phase 1 development also shows promise in other pulmonary fibrotic conditions. BMS has agreed to pay a total of $444 million for the Swedish company and its products.

Francis Cuss, MB BChir, FRCP, executive VP and CSO at BMS, said, “TD139 provides Bristol-Myers Squibb an opportunity to advance the company’s fibrosis development program with the addition of a promising compound that has the potential to modulate multiple disease pathways.”

BMS and Galecto Agreement

The acquisition of Galecto strengthens BMS’ pipeline in fibrotic diseases as Galecto has shown that TD139 is viable in preclinical models and is moving the agent into clinical trials. The partnership between BMS and Galecto will advance TD139 and other galectin modulators through development. BMS has structured the agreement with Galecto into option fees and clinical and regulatory milestone payments. BMS can exercise the option at any time but no later than 60 days after the Phase 1b trial is completed. The two companies have agreed on a pre-clinical and Phase 1 plan, which Galecto will execute during the option period.

Galectin-3 Inhibitors

TD139 is an inhibitor of the galactoside-binding pocket of galectin-3. The agent is formulated for inhalation to target the fibrotic tissue in the lungs, without system wide exposure. TD139 inhibits the galectin-3 protein from binding to carbohydrate structures in the body, thereby limiting disease progression and scarring. Galecto develops other galectin-3 inhibitors that work to help modulate the immune system and limit pro-fibrotic activity. Galecto states that galectin-3 plays a role in many pathological processes, making it suitable for targeting in many diseases and conditions.

BMS’ Fibrosis Portfolio

BMS’ Mr. Cuss stated that acquiring TD139 would advance the company’s fibrosis development program. BMS is currently developing BMS-986020 in its early stage fibrosis portfolio. The agent is a lysophosphatidic acid 1 (LPA1) receptor antagonist in development for the treatment of IPF. The Phase 2 trial, titled “Safety and Efficacy of a Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptor Antagonist in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis,” is currently recruiting for a placebo-controlled study.