2seventy bio, Inc. and JW Therapeutics announced a strategic alliance to establish a translational and clinical cell therapy development platform designed to more rapidly explore T cell-based immunotherapy therapy products in the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong (China), and Macao (China). The initial focus of the collaboration is 2seventy bio's MAGE-A4 TCR program in solid tumors which is being developed as part of a collaboration with Regeneron. MAGE-A4 is a member of the MAGE family of cancer-testis antigens expressed in a number of solid tumor types.

The program is designed to develop T cell receptor (TCR) therapies for the treatment of MAGE-A4 positive solid tumors. Under the terms of the agreement, 2seventy bio will grant JW Therapeutics a license for the MAGE-A4 cell therapy in the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong (China), and Macao (China). JW Therapeutics will be responsible for development, manufacturing, and commercialization within China.

2seventy bio is eligible to receive milestones and royalties on product revenues in China. Additionally, 2seventy bio may leverage the early clinical data generated under the collaboration to support development in other geographies. The detailed arrangements are not disclosed.

The closing of the transaction will be subject to the approval of the JW Therapeutics shareholders and other customary closing conditions.