NeoImmuneTech has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with U.S.-based Tolerance Bio for development and commercialization of NT-I7, or efineptakin alfa, in thymic-insufficiency-related indications in the Americas and Europe.
The agreement is NeoImmuneTech’s first out-licensing transaction since its KOSDAQ listing. The company is eligible to receive up to $260 million, or approximately KRW 367 billion, in development and sales milestone payments, along with a 4% fully diluted equity stake in Tolerance Bio and tiered royalties on annual net sales following commercialization.
Tolerance Bio received exclusive rights to develop and commercialize NT-I7 for indications related to thymic insufficiency, including immune reconstitution in people living with HIV. NeoImmuneTech will continue to focus its own resources on core development programs, including immuno-oncology, while allowing specialized partners to advance NT-I7 in therapeutic areas it does not plan to develop directly.
NT-I7 is a clinical-stage cytokine intended to support T-cell-based immunotherapy approaches. According to Tolerance Bio, the IL-7 therapeutic class has demonstrated thymus- and T-cell-boosting effects. The company said it sees long-acting IL-7 as a potential approach to preserving and regenerating thymic function and improving immune resilience in vulnerable populations.
NeoImmuneTech selected Tolerance Bio because of its expertise in thymic biology and the track record of its management team in drug development, FDA approvals, global commercialization and biotech acquisitions.
Tolerance Bio was founded by members of the team behind Provention Bio, which Sanofi acquired for approximately $2.9 billion in 2023. Tolerance Bio founder and Chief Executive Francisco Leon previously helped lead the development and FDA approval of TZIELD, a treatment for type 1 diabetes, while at Provention Bio.
NeoImmuneTech Chief Executive Taekyung Kim said the deal expands NT-I7’s potential into a new therapeutic area with a partner that has relevant expertise. He said the company plans to increase the platform’s value through collaborations while maintaining its focus on core programs.
Leon said efineptakin alfa has a favorable safety record and is a well-characterized clinical-stage cytokine. He said Tolerance Bio will explore its potential in immune-mediated diseases through preservation, restoration and modulation of thymic function.
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