LianBio: Pfizer Opts In to Commercialize RSV Candidate Sisunatovir in Greater China, Singapore

By Chris Wack

LianBio said Monday that Pfizer Inc. opted in to the right to develop and commercialize sisunatovir, a drug candidate to treat respiratory syncytial virus, in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Singapore as part of the companies' collaboration.

Under the terms of Pfizer's opt-in, LianBio will receive a $20 million upfront payment.

Sisunatovir is an investigational, orally administered fusion inhibitor designed to block RSV replication by inhibiting F-mediated fusion with the host cell. Sisunatovir is being evaluated for the potential treatment of RSV infection in pediatric and adult patients.

In June, Pfizer acquired ReViral Ltd. and its portfolio of RSV therapeutic candidates with the exception of development and commercialization rights for sisunatovir in greater China and Singapore, which LianBio had previously in-licensed from ReViral in March 2021.

LianBio is eligible to receive up to $135 million in potential development and commercial milestone payments and tiered low single-digit percent of sisunatovir net sales in the territories. Pfizer will assume all development and commercial activities and costs in the region and will release LianBio from its royalty and milestone obligations for sisunatovir.

LianBio ADRs were up 11% to $1.50 in premarket trading.

Write to Chris Wack at [e-mail]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

December 19, 2022 07:33 ET (12:33 GMT)

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