Simcere Pharmaceutical Group and Boehringer Ingelheim announced a licence and collaboration agreement to develop SIM0709, a pre-clinical TL1A/IL23p19 bi-specific antibody from Simcere, for the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

SIM0709 is a long-acting humanised bi-specific antibody developed by Simcere using its proprietary multi-specific antibody platform. It simultaneously targets tumour necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 15 (TL1A) and interleukin-23 (IL-23), thereby blocking two core pathways that drive the onset and progression of IBD. Both in-vitro primary cell studies and in-vivo animal studies, SIM0709 demonstrated superior synergistic efficacy, even outperforming the combination of the two corresponding monotherapies.

Speaking in this regard, Carine Boustany, US Innovation Unit Site Head and Global Head of Immunology and Respiratory Diseases, Boehringer Ingelheim, said, "In IBD, too many patients continue to progress and experience severe complications despite currently available anti-inflammatory therapies. We are excited to join forces with Simcere to accelerate the development of this therapeutic as a potential life-changing option for patients living with IBD."

Globally, it is estimated that more than three million people are affected by IBD, a life-long, progressive condition leading to frequent hospitalisation and surgeries, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Current medical options cannot fully prevent or reverse these complications, leaving a clear unmet need. Through this partnership, Boehringer and Simcere aim to advance an innovative approach to potentially redefine treatment possibilities and improve outcomes for patients worldwide.     

"Simcere's bispecific antibody SIM0709 was engineered with our proprietary multi-specific antibody platform with the first-in-class potential for IBD treatment. Partnering with Boehringer Ingelheim, with its long?term commitment and deep expertise in immunology, positions the compound for rigorous global development. Together we aim to accelerate the clinical development and advance a treatment option that could improve outcomes for patients world-wide affected by IBD," said Gaobo Zhou, Chief Investment Officer, Simcere Pharmaceutical Group.

Under the terms of the agreement Boehringer receives global rights to the asset, excluding greater China. Simcere is eligible to receive an upfront payment as well as success-based development, regulatory and sales milestones up to EUR 1,058 million, as well as royalties on net sales outside of the Greater China territory.

This marks Simcere's second out-licensing transaction in the autoimmune field. As of January 2026, Simcere has completed a total of five out-licensing deals for its self-developed novel drug technologies, with a total potential transaction value of approximately USD 4.6 billion.