Merus NV and Halozyme Therapeutics have entered into a global non-exclusive collaboration and licence agreement. Under the collaboration, Merus has licensed Halozyme's ENHANZE drug delivery technology, for the development and potential commercialisation of subcutaneous administration of petosemtamab, an EGFR x LGR5 bispecific antibody.

"Petosemtamab continues to show encouraging results in the clinical studies across numerous solid tumour cancers and has the potential to become a first and best in class treatment in head and neck cancer and beyond. We are proud to collaborate with Halozyme and look forward to working closely with their team on a subcutaneous administration," said Peter Silverman, Chief Operating Officer, General Counsel, Merus.

Under the terms of the agreement, Merus will make an upfront payment to Halozyme, and potential future milestone payments related to commercial and sales attainment, if approved. Halozyme will also be entitled to up to low-mid single digit royalties on net sales of petosemtamab formulated with the ENHANZE technology during the royalty term.

"We are excited to collaborate with Merus to advance treatment options for patients with r/m HNSCC and other potential indications. This collaboration represents a new opportunity for our ENHANZE technology to improve treatment efficiency and enhance the patient treatment experience. Together, we aim to accelerate innovation for patients and healthcare providers," said Dr Helen Torley, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Halozyme.