Lilly and AstraZeneca expand immuno-oncology research collaboration with new combinations

AstraZeneca's anti-PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor, durvalumab (MEDI4736), will be combined with Lilly molecules that target the immune system.

Under the terms of the expanded agreement, Lilly and AstraZeneca will evaluate the safety and efficacy of a range of additional combinations across the companies' complementary portfolios. Lilly will lead the execution of the studies, while both companies will contribute resources. Additional details of the collaboration, including tumours to be studied and financial terms, were not disclosed.

AstraZeneca's anti-PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor, durvalumab (MEDI4736), will be combined with Lilly molecules that target the immune system, including

The companies will also explore other combinations targeting tumour drivers and resistance mechanisms, including

Richard Gaynor, senior vice president, product development and medical affairs for Lilly Oncology, said: "The expansion of Lilly's research partnership with AstraZeneca will explore the far-reaching potential of combining novel targeted therapies. Our respective pipelines afford multiple targeted options to create innovative combinations in immuno-oncology and beyond, that we hope will lead to future cancer treatment options."

Mondher Mahjoubi, senior vice president, global product strategy for oncology at AstraZeneca, said, "The extension of our collaboration with Lilly further supports our combination-focused oncology strategy and adds to our broad development program across small molecules and immunotherapies."