1ST Biotherapeutics, Inc. and LigaChem Biosciences have entered into a strategic partnership and licensing option agreement to co-develop novel payloads for antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) as well as small molecule immuno-oncology therapies.
Under the terms of the agreement, the two companies will collaborate to identify and develop 2–4 novel drug candidates over the next three years, including next-generation ADC payloads and small molecule oncology assets. LigaChemBio will provide initial funding for joint R&D activities and retain exclusive licensing options for the resulting candidates. Upon exercising the option, LigaChemBio will have the right to out-license assets to third parties and share revenues with 1STBIO. Further financial details were not disclosed.
The agreement builds on an ongoing joint research project that began in December 2024. Recognizing a strong fit and potential synergies between the teams, LigaChem Bio opted to expand the alliance. The partnership is expected to overcome limitations of current ADC payloads and unlock first-in-class or best-in-class oncology programs.
“1STBIO’s cutting-edge R&D capabilities are at the core of this collaboration,” said Jamie Jae Eun Kim, CEO of 1ST Biotherapeutics. “By combining our strengths, we aim to not only advance ADC payload innovation, but also to drive meaningful breakthroughs in small molecule immuno-oncology. This expanded partnership reflects our commitment to building sustainable, innovation-driven biotech alliances.”
“We are pleased to collaborate with 1STBIO, a company with strong capabilities in small molecule drug discovery and oncology,” said Yong-Zu Kim, CEO of LigaChemBio. “Beyond this partnership, we will continue to pursue open innovation with biotech companies worldwide to deliver transformative therapies to patients.”