Kazia Therapeutics signs collaboration and in-licensing agreement for PD-L1

Kazia Therapeutics (KZIA) announced an exclusive collaboration and in-licensing agreement with QIMR Berghofer for a first-in-class PD-L1 degrader program. The lead optimized compound, NDL2, is an advanced PD-L1 protein degrader currently in development in cancer immunotherapy. By binding PD-L1 and recruiting the cell’s natural protein disposal machinery, NDL2 drives the breakdown and clearance of the modified PD-L1 across all cellular compartments. In preclinical models of aggressive triple-negative breast cancer, NDL2 monotherapy, as well as in combination with anti-PD-1 therapies, achieved significant tumor growth reduction. Treated tumors showed reduced T-cell exhaustion and enhanced immune activity. Across the preclinical work to date, no toxicity has been observed. The program will initially target advanced breast cancer and non-small cell lung cancer, where PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapies are widely used but resistance remains common. IND-enabling studies are expected to commence within six months. Kazia also intends to explore synergistic opportunities to combine NDL2 with its existing pipeline assets, including paxalisib and EVT801. Under the terms of the collaboration agreement, Kazia will make a one-time payment of approximately $1.39M 15 business days after signing and is responsible for all development costs. Kazia will share a percentage of commercialization revenue, which includes any out-licensing payments received from third parties.