Takeda and GammaDelta collaborates to develop novel T cell platform

Takeda Pharmaceutical signed contract with GammaDelta Therapeutics for collaboration to develop GammaDelta Therapeutics’ novel T cell platform based on the unique properties of gamma delta (γδ) T cells derived from human tissues.

The companies intend to use this novel platform to discover and develop new immunotherapies, with the aim of treating a broad range of cancers, including solid tumours, and autoinflammatory diseases. Takeda, together with Abingworth, will commit up to $100 million in funding to accelerate GammaDelta Therapeutics led Research and Development. The funding includes an equity investment, an option fee and research and development funding, and provides Takeda the exclusive right to purchase GammaDelta Therapeutics. Under the agreement, Takeda will appoint a director to GammaDelta Therapeutics’ board.

GammaDelta Therapeutics CEO, Dr Paolo Paoletti said that the pioneering research developed by Professor Adrian Hayday and Dr. Oliver Nussbaumer at King’s College London and the Francis Crick Institute, the scientific Founders of their company, forms the basis for the development of potentially transformational treatments for cancer and autoinflammatory diseases. They believe the collaboration with Takeda validates their novel approach and should allow them to move rapidly to the clinic.