Ichnos Sciences Inc., a global, fully integrated, clinical-stage biotech company and Mumbai-based Glenmark Pharmaceuticals have announced the launch of their alliance, Ichnos Glenmark Innovation, to accelerate new drug discovery in cancer treatment.

This alliance combines Ichnos' research and development proficiencies in novel biologics with those of Glenmark in new small molecules, to continue developing cutting-edge therapy solutions that treat haematological malignancies and solid tumours.

The newly formed IGI features a robust pipeline of three innovative oncology molecules targeting multiple myeloma, acute myeloid leukemia, and solid tumours currently undergoing clinical trials.

Two of these molecules have received orphan drug designation from the US FDA. Additionally, IGI has two autoimmune disease assets that have been out licensed to leading companies. The alliance will also further explore the in-licensing of late-stage clinical assets to augment its novel oncology drug pipeline.

Harnessing the combined proficiency of over 150 scientists, IGI will leverage the capabilities of its three global centres of innovation. These comprise the Ichnos' headquarters in New York, US which is focused on clinical development; the biologics research centre in Lausanne, Switzerland; and Glenmark's small molecule research centre at Mahape in Mumbai, India.