Aptevo Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: APVO) and Niowave Inc. have announced a 50/50 strategic collaboration to develop up to three radiopharmaceutical oncology programs. The partnership leverages Aptevo's multispecific antibody platforms for tumor targeting and Niowave's expertise in radioisotope production and supply, aiming to advance targeted cancer treatments that spare healthy tissue. Niowave also made an equity investment in Aptevo, initially representing a 7.9% ownership stake, with the potential to increase to 19.99% through warrant exercises.
Radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) delivers radioactive isotopes directly to cancer cells, minimizing collateral damage to healthy tissues. The field has attracted over $17 billion in investments from Big Pharma, highlighting its potential. However, development has been constrained by limited access to critical isotopes and manufacturing infrastructure. By combining forces, Aptevo and Niowave aim to overcome these barriers and accelerate the development of novel RPTs.
Under the agreement, Aptevo will contribute assets from its proprietary ADAPTIR™ and ADAPTIR-FLEX™ platforms, including targeting assets directed against Nectin-4, a clinically validated cancer target expressed on solid tumors. Niowave will provide radioisotopes such as actinium-225 and related manufacturing capabilities. The companies have already designed the first program and are ready to initiate the initial stage of the collaboration.
“This collaboration will deepen our radiopharmaceutical development capabilities and better position us to support current partners and the broader industry,” said Mike Zamiara, CEO of Niowave. Jeff Lamothe, President and CEO of Aptevo, added, “By combining our targeting approach with Niowave’s isotope capabilities, we are well-positioned to explore new ways to address the complexity of many kinds of cancer.”
The partnership marks Aptevo's entry into radiopharmaceuticals, while Niowave expands beyond isotope supply into therapeutic development. Both companies see an opportune time to enter the market, as Big Pharma investments underscore the importance of innovation-driven platforms. For more details, visit NewMediaWire.
